Systems and methods for training and applying virtual occurrences and granting in-game resources to a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips

ABSTRACT

Method and system for granting in-game resources for a telematics-based game. In some examples, a computer-implemented method includes: generating, based on a character profile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by a virtual character; determining, based on a plurality of virtual ratings of the virtual character, one or more outcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences; determining, based on a user&#39;s driving performance during one or more real trips, a first quantity of a first game resource at least for purchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items being exclusively purchasable using the first game resource; upon receiving the user&#39;s selection to use a first outcome-modifying item: updating the one or more outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; and determining, based on the updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of a second game resource at least for purchasing character cosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, and unlocking regions of a virtual map.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No.62/963,332 filed Jan. 20, 2020, which is incorporated by referenceherein for all purposes.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/206,063 and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/205,989 are incorporated by reference herein for allpurposes.

The following four applications, including this one, are being filedconcurrently and the other three are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entirety for all purposes:

1. International PCT application Ser. No. ______, titled “Systems andMethods for Training and Applying Virtual Occurrences to a VirtualCharacter Using Telematics Data of One or More Real Trips” (AttorneyDocket Number BOL-00004A-PCT);

2. International PCT application Ser. No. ______, titled “Systems andMethods for Training and Applying Virtual Occurrences to a VirtualCharacter Using Telematics Data of One or More Real Trips in Real-Time”(Attorney Docket Number BOL-00004B-PCT);

3. International PCT application Ser. No. ______, titled “Systems andMethods for Training and Applying Virtual Occurrences with ModifiableOutcomes to a Virtual Character Using Telematics Data of One or MoreReal Trips” (Attorney Docket Number BOL-00004C-PCT); and

4. International PCT application Ser. No. ______, titled “Systems andMethods for Training and Applying Virtual Occurrences and GrantingIn-Game Resources to a Virtual Character Using Telematics Data of One orMore Real Trips” (Attorney Docket Number BOL-00004D-PCT).

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to virtualvehicle operation in a virtual environment. More particularly, certainembodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods fortraining and applying virtual occurrences and granting in-game resourcesto a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips.Merely by way of example, the present disclosure has been applied tovehicle operation in a vehicle environment, but it would be recognizedthat the present disclosure has much broader range of applicability.

BACKGROUND

Individuals frequently operate or otherwise travel in vehicles, wherevehicular safety is consistently of paramount importance. Whileindividuals generally exercise care while operating vehicles, becausevehicular accidents are relatively rare, it may be psychologicallydifficult for many vehicle operators to appreciate the risks thatvehicular operation still pose, and the vehicle operators may not bereadily mindful of or accepting of reducing these risks. Accordingly,there is an opportunity for technologies directed to increasingvehicular safety by increasing a vehicle operator's appreciation andawareness of risks posed by vehicle operation. For at least theforegoing reasons, there is a need for systems and methods for traininga virtual character using telematics data of one or more completed tripsof a driver to motivate adjustments and improvements in the driver'soperational behaviors.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to virtualvehicle operation in a virtual environment. More particularly, certainembodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods fortraining and applying virtual occurrences and granting in-game resourcesto a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips.Merely by way of example, the present disclosure has been applied tovehicle operation in a vehicle environment, but it would be recognizedthat the present disclosure has much broader range of applicability.

According to various embodiments, a computer-implemented method forgranting game resources of a telematics-based game, the methodcomprising: receiving telematics data associated with one or more realtrips during which a user operated a real vehicle; determining, based atleast in part upon the telematics data, a plurality of skill pointsassociated with a plurality of real skills exhibited by the user duringthe one or more real trips; receiving, from the user, a selection of avirtual character, the virtual character having a character profile anda plurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; training the virtual character by at least updating, based atleast in part upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality ofvirtual ratings; generating, based at least in part upon the characterprofile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; determining, based at least in part upon a pluralityof virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; determining, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, a first quantity of a first game resource atleast for purchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifyingitems being exclusively purchasable using the first game resource;updating the character profile by granting the first quantity of thefirst game resource to the virtual character; upon receiving the user'sselection to use a first outcome-modifying item: updating the one ormore outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; and determining,based at least in part upon the updated one or more outcomes, a secondquantity of a second game resource at least for purchasing charactercosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, and unlocking regions of avirtual map; and updating the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character; andpresenting the updated character profile to the user.

According to various embodiments, a system for granting game resourcesof a telematics-based game, the system comprising: a data receivingmodule configured to receive telematics data associated with one or morereal trips during which a user operated a real vehicle; a skill pointdetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe telematics data, a plurality of skill points associated with aplurality of real skills exhibited by the user during the one or morereal trips; a user input module configured to receive, from the user, aselection of a virtual character, the virtual character having acharacter profile and a plurality of virtual ratings associated with aplurality of virtual skills; a character training module configured totrain the virtual character by at least updating, based at least in partupon the plurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; avirtual occurrence generating module configured to generate, based atleast in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; an outcomedetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe plurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated withthe one or more virtual occurrences; a game resource determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the plurality ofskill points, a first quantity of a first game resource at least forpurchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items beingexclusively purchasable using the first game resource; a characterprofile updating module configured to update the character profile bygranting the first quantity of the first game resource to the virtualcharacter; wherein the outcome determining module is further configuredto update the one or more outcomes according to a predeterminedadjustment; wherein the game resource determining module is furtherconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the updated one ormore outcomes, a second quantity of a second game resource at least forpurchasing character cosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, andunlocking regions of a virtual map; wherein the character profileupdating module is further configured to update the character profile bygranting the second quantity of the second game resource to the virtualcharacter; wherein the system further includes a presenting moduleconfigured to present the updated character profile to the user.

According to various embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readablemedium with instructions stored thereon, that upon execution by aprocessor, causes the processor to perform: receiving telematics dataassociated with one or more real trips during which a user operated areal vehicle; determining, based at least in part upon the telematicsdata, a plurality of skill points associated with a plurality of realskills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips;receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtual character, thevirtual character having a character profile and a plurality of virtualratings associated with a plurality of virtual skills; training thevirtual character by at least updating, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; generating,based at least in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; determining,based at least in part upon the plurality of virtual ratings, one ormore outcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences;determining, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points,a first quantity of a first game resource at least for purchasingoutcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items being exclusivelypurchasable using the first game resource; updating the characterprofile by granting the first quantity of the first game resource to thevirtual character; upon receiving the user's selection to use a firstoutcome-modifying item: updating the one or more outcomes according to apredetermined adjustment; and determining, based at least in part uponthe updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of a second gameresource at least for purchasing character cosmetic upgrades, unlockingin-game items, and unlocking regions of a virtual map; and updating thecharacter profile by granting the second quantity of the second gameresource to the virtual character; and presenting the updated characterprofile to the user.

Depending upon the embodiment, one or more benefits may be achieved.These benefits, features, and advantages of the present disclosure canbe fully appreciated with reference to the detailed description andaccompanying drawings that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram showing a system for granting in-gameresources according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram showing a method for granting in-gameresources according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram showing a system for training a virtualoperator according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a simplified diagram showing a method for training a virtualoperator according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram showing a computer device, according tovarious embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram showing a computer system, according tovarious embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A-34 are simplified diagrams showing interfaces associated withvarious functionalities according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to virtualvehicle operation in a virtual environment. More particularly, certainembodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods fortraining and applying virtual occurrences and granting in-game resourcesto a virtual character using telematics data of one or more real trips.Merely by way of example, the present disclosure has been applied tovehicle operation in a vehicle environment, but it would be recognizedthat the present disclosure has much broader range of applicability.

One or More Systems for Granting In-Game Resources According to VariousEmbodiments

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram showing a system 100 for granting in-gameresources for a telematics-based game, according to various embodimentsof the present disclosure. This diagram is merely an example, whichshould not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skillin the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, andmodifications. In some examples, the system 100 includes a datareceiving module 102, a skill point determining module 104, a user inputmodule 106, a character training module 108, a virtual occurrencegenerating module 110, an outcome determining module 112, a gameresource determining module 114, and a character profile updating module116. In certain examples, the system 100 is configured to implementmethod 200 of FIG. 2. Although the above has been shown using a selectedgroup of components, there can be many alternatives, modifications, andvariations. In some examples, some of the components may be expandedand/or combined. Some components may be removed. Other components may beinserted to those noted above. Depending upon the embodiment, thearrangement of components may be interchanged with others replaced.

In various embodiments, the data receiving module 102 is configured toreceive telematics data associated with one or more real trips duringwhich a user operated a real vehicle.

In various embodiments, the skill point determining module 104 isconfigured to determine, such as based at least in part upon thetelematics data, a plurality of skill points associated with a pluralityof real skills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips.

In various embodiments, the user input module 106 is configured toreceive, such as from the user, a selection of a virtual character. Insome examples, the virtual character having a character profile and aplurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills.

In various embodiments, the character training module 108 is configuredto train the virtual character by at least updating, such as based atleast in part upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality ofvirtual ratings. In some examples, the character training module 108 isconfigured to update, based at least in part upon the plurality of skillpoints, a plurality of fill-levels corresponding to the plurality ofvirtual skills. In some examples, the character training module 108 isfurther configured to increase one or more virtual ratings of theplurality of virtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of theplurality of fill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined filltargets.

In various embodiments, the virtual occurrence generating module 110 isconfigured to generate, such as based at least in part upon thecharacter profile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered bythe virtual character. In some examples, the virtual occurrencegenerating module 110 is configured to generate the one or more virtualoccurrences based further in part upon one or more unlocked regions of avirtual map of the telematics-based game.

In various embodiments, the outcome determining module 112 is configuredto determine, such as based at least in part upon the plurality ofvirtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences. In some examples, the outcome determining module112 is further configured to update the one or more outcomes accordingto a predetermined adjustment. In some embodiments, the outcomedetermining module 112 is configured to determine the one or moreoutcomes based at least in part upon: a plurality of occurrencedifficulties including a steering difficulty associated with one or morevirtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty associated with one ormore virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty associated withone or more virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficultyassociated with one or more virtual focus obstacles, the plurality ofvirtual ratings corresponding to the plurality of virtual skills, theplurality of virtual ratings including a virtual steering rating of avirtual steering skill, a virtual braking rating of a virtual brakingskill, a virtual speeding rating of a virtual speeding skill, and/or avirtual focus rating of a virtual focus skill.

In various embodiments, the game resource determining module 114 isconfigured to determine, such as based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, a first quantity of a first game resource atleast for purchasing outcome-modifying items. In various examples, theoutcome-modifying items being exclusively purchasable using the firstgame resource. In some examples, the game resource determining module114 is further configured to determine, such as based at least in partupon the updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of a secondgame resource at least for purchasing character cosmetic upgrades,unlocking in-game items, and/or unlocking regions of a virtual map.

In various embodiments, the character profile updating module 116 isconfigured to update the character profile by granting the firstquantity of the first game resource to the virtual character. In someexamples, the character profile updating module 116 is furtherconfigured to update the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character. In someexamples, the character profile updating module 116 is configured toupdate a vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with thevirtual character, the vehicle condition indicative of a degree ofdamage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or more virtualoccurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes. In someexamples, the system further includes a presenting module configured topresent the updated character profile to the user. In some examples, thepresenting module is configured to present the updated vehicle conditionof the virtual vehicle to the user.

One or More Methods for Granting In-Game Resources According to VariousEmbodiments

FIG. 2 is a simplified method 200 for granting in-game resources for atelematics-based game, according to various embodiments of the presentdisclosure. This diagram is merely an example, which should not undulylimit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art wouldrecognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications. The method200 includes a process 202 of receiving telematics data, a process 204of determining a plurality of skill points, a process 206 of receiving aselection of a virtual character, a process 208 of training the virtualcharacter, a process 210 of generating one or more virtual occurrences,a process 212 of determining one or more outcomes, a process 214 ofdetermining a first quantity of a first game resource, a process 216 ofupdating the character profile, a process 218 of updating the one ormore outcomes, a process 220 of determining a second quantity of asecond game resource, a process 222 of updating the character profile, aprocess 224 of presenting the updated character profile. In certainexamples, the method 200 is configured to be implemented by system 100of FIG. 1. Although the above has been shown using a selected group ofprocesses for the method, there can be many alternatives, modifications,and variations. In some examples, some of the processes may be expandedand/or combined. Other processes may be inserted to those noted above.Depending upon the embodiment, the sequence of processes may beinterchanged with others replaced. In some examples, some or allprocesses of the method are performed by a computing device or aprocessor directed by instructions stored in memory. As an example, someor all processes of the method are performed according to instructionsstored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In various embodiments, the process 202 of receiving telematics dataincludes receiving telematics data associated with one or more realtrips during which a user operated a real vehicle.

In various embodiments, the process 204 of determining a plurality ofskill points includes determining, such as based at least in part uponthe telematics data, a plurality of skill points associated with aplurality of real skills exhibited by the user during the one or morereal trips.

In various embodiments, the process 206 of receiving a selection of avirtual character includes receiving, such as from the user, a selectionof a virtual character. In some examples, the virtual character has acharacter profile and a plurality of virtual ratings associated with aplurality of virtual skills. In some examples, the plurality of realskills includes a real steering skill, a real braking skill, a realspeeding skill, and/or a real focus skill. In some examples, theplurality of virtual skills includes a virtual steering skill, a virtualbraking skill, a virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focus skill.

In various embodiments, the process 208 of training the virtualcharacter includes training the virtual character by at least updating,such as based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, theplurality of virtual ratings. In some examples, the process 208 oftraining the virtual character includes: updating, based at least inpart upon the plurality of skill points, a plurality of fill-levelscorresponding to the plurality of virtual skills. In some examples,training the virtual character further includes increasing one or morevirtual ratings of the plurality of virtual ratings upon any of thefill-levels of the plurality of fill-levels exceeding one or morepredetermined fill targets.

In various embodiments, the process 210 of generating one or morevirtual occurrences includes generating, such as based at least in partupon the character profile, one or more virtual occurrences to beencountered by the virtual character. In some examples, each virtualoccurrence of the one or more virtual occurrences includes one or morevirtual obstacles to be encountered by the virtual character. In someexamples, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes a steering difficulty corresponding to one or more virtualsteering obstacles, a braking difficulty corresponding to one or morevirtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty corresponding to one ormore virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficulty correspondingto one or more virtual focus obstacles. In some examples, the process210 of generating the one or more virtual occurrences includesgenerating the one or more virtual occurrences based further in partupon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In various embodiments, the process 212 of determining one or moreoutcomes includes determining, such as based at least in part upon aplurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with theone or more virtual occurrences. In some examples, each outcome of theone or more outcomes correspond to a likelihood of success of thevirtual character overcoming the one or more virtual obstacles in eachvirtual occurrence of the one or more virtual occurrences. In someexamples, the process 212 of determining the one or more outcomesincludes determining the one or more outcomes based at least in partupon the steering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speedingdifficulty, the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of thevirtual steering skill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual brakingskill, a virtual speeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or avirtual focus rating of the virtual focus skill.

In various embodiments, the process 214 of determining a first quantityof a first game resource includes determining, such as based at least inpart upon the plurality of skill points, a first quantity of a firstgame resource at least for purchasing outcome-modifying items. Invarious examples, the outcome-modifying items are exclusivelypurchasable using the first game resource.

In various embodiments, the process 216 of updating the characterprofile includes updating the character profile by granting the firstquantity of the first game resource to the virtual character. In someexamples, the process 216 of updating the character profile includesupdating a vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with thevirtual character. In some examples, the vehicle condition is indicativeof a degree of damage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one ormore virtual occurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In various embodiments, the process 218 of updating the one or moreoutcomes includes updating, such as upon receiving the user's selectionto use a first outcome-modifying item, the one or more outcomesaccording to a predetermined adjustment.

In various embodiments, the process 220 of determining a second quantityof a second game resource includes determining, such as based at leastin part upon the updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of asecond game resource at least for purchasing character cosmeticupgrades, unlocking in-game items, and/or unlocking regions of a virtualmap.

In various embodiments, the process 222 of updating the characterprofile includes updating the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character.

In various embodiments, the process 224 of presenting the updatedcharacter profile includes presenting the updated character profile tothe user. In some examples, the process 224 of presenting the updatedcharacter profile includes presenting the updated vehicle condition ofthe virtual vehicle to the user.

One or More Systems for Training a Virtual Driver According to VariousEmbodiments

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram showing a system for training a virtualdriver, according to some embodiments. This diagram is merely anexample, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One ofordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives,and modifications. In some examples, the system 300 includes a datareceiving module 302, a score determining module 304, an experiencedetermining module 306, and an experience applying module 308. Incertain examples, the system 300 is configured to implement method 400of FIG. 4. Although the above has been shown using a selected group ofcomponents, there can be many alternatives, modifications, andvariations. For example, some of the components may be expanded and/orcombined. Some components may be removed. Other components may beinserted to those noted above. Depending upon the embodiment, thearrangement of components may be interchanged with others replaced.

In some embodiments, the data receiving module 302 is configured toreceive telematics data associated with a real-world driver. In someexamples, the data receiving module 302 is configured to receivetelematics data associated with one or more real trips during which thereal-world driver (e.g., a user or player) operated a real vehicle. Incertain examples, the telematics data are collected via one or moresensors associated with the real vehicle and/or with a mobile deviceassociated with the user. In various examples, the telematics data arereceived in real-time, or in near real-time, with the collectionthereof, such as during the commencement of the one or more real trips.

In some embodiments, the score determining module 304 is configured todetermine one or more driving scores corresponding to one or morereal-world driving characteristics based at least in part upon thetelematics data. A characteristic may also be referred to as a trait ora skill. In various examples, the one or more real-world drivingcharacteristics includes a braking characteristic, a steeringcharacteristic, a speeding characteristic, and/or a focuscharacteristic. In some examples, the braking characteristic correspondsto the real-world driver's ability to decelerate the real vehicle uponencountering braking obstacles, such as T-junctions or pedestriancrossings. In some examples, the steering characteristic corresponds tothe real-world driver's ability to steer the real vehicle uponencountering steering obstacles, such as on-road objects (e.g.,potholes, road kills) or sharp turns. In some examples, the speedingcharacteristic corresponds to the real-world driver's ability todecelerate the real vehicle upon encountering speeding obstacles, suchas instances of the real vehicle operated by the user is faster than aspeed limit. In some examples, the focus characteristic corresponds tothe real-world driver's ability to maintain or regain focus whileoperating the real vehicle upon encountering focus obstacles, such aswhen the user is about to use their phone.

In some embodiments, the experience determining module 306 is configuredto determine one or more virtual experiences for a telematics-basedgame. A virtual experience may be referred to as a virtual occurrence orvirtual event. In some examples, the experience determining module 306is configured to determine the one or more virtual experiences based inpart upon a character profile of a virtual character. For example, theexperience determining module 306 is configured to determine the one ormore virtual experiences based in part upon a one or more skill ratings(or levels) of a plurality of virtual skills (e.g., steering, braking,speeding, focus), and/or one or more unlocked regions of a virtual gamemap.

In some embodiments, the experience applying module 308 is configured toapply the one or more virtual experiences to a pre-selected virtualdriver to train the virtual driver. In some examples, the experienceapplying module 308 is configured to initiate the one or more virtualexperiences for a virtual character, such as one selected by a user. Invarious examples, a virtual experience includes a virtual trip, avirtual scene, a virtual occurrence, a virtual event, a virtualincident, a virtual mini-game, and/or a virtual interaction. Forexample, a virtual trip includes one or more virtual obstaclesconfigured to be encountered by the virtual character, where the virtualcharacter may succeed in overcoming based on a plurality of ratings of aplurality of virtual characteristics associated with the virtualcharacter.

One or More Methods for Training a Virtual Driver According to VariousEmbodiments

FIG. 4 is a simplified diagram showing a method for training a virtualdriver, according to some embodiments. This diagram is merely anexample, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One ofordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives,and modifications. In certain examples, the method 400 is implemented bythe system 300 of FIG. 3. In some examples, the method 400 includes aprocess 402 of receiving telematics data associated with a real-worlddriver, a process 404 of determining one or more driving scorescorresponding to one or more real-world driving characteristics based atleast in part upon the telematics data, a process 406 of determining oneor more virtual experiences corresponding to one or more virtual drivingcharacteristics bases at least in part upon the one or more drivingscores, and a process 408 of applying the one or more virtualexperiences to a pre-selected virtual driver to train the virtualdriver. Although the above has been shown using a selected group ofprocesses for the method, there can be many alternatives, modifications,and variations. For example, some of the processes may be expandedand/or combined. Other processes may be inserted to those noted above.Some processes may be removed. Depending upon the embodiment, thesequence of processes may be interchanged with others replaced.

In some embodiments, the process 402 of receiving telematics dataassociated with a real-world driver includes receiving telematics dataassociated with one or more real trips during which the real-worlddriver (e.g., a user or player) operated a real vehicle. In certainexamples, the telematics data are collected via one or more sensorsassociated with the real vehicle and/or with a mobile device associatedwith the user. In various examples, the telematics data are received inreal-time, or in near real-time, with the collection thereof, such asduring the commencement of the one or more real trips.

In some embodiments, the process 404 of determining one or more drivingscores includes determining driving scores for a braking characteristic,a steering characteristic, a speeding characteristic, and/or a focuscharacteristic. In some examples, the braking characteristic correspondsto the real-world driver's ability to decelerate the real vehicle uponencountering braking obstacles, such as T-junctions or pedestriancrossings. In some examples, the steering characteristic corresponds tothe real-world driver's ability to steer the real vehicle uponencountering steering obstacles, such as on-road objects (e.g.,potholes, road kills) or sharp turns. In some examples, the speedingcharacteristic corresponds to the real-world driver's ability todecelerate the real vehicle upon encountering speeding obstacles, suchas instances of the real vehicle operated by the user is faster than aspeed limit. In some examples, the focus characteristic corresponds tothe real-world driver's ability to maintain or regain focus whileoperating the real vehicle upon encountering focus obstacles, such aswhen the user is about to use their phone.

In some embodiments, the process 406 of determining one or more virtualexperiences includes determining the one or more virtual experiencesbased in part upon a character profile of a virtual character. Forexample, determining the one or more virtual experiences includesdetermining the one or more virtual experiences based in part upon a oneor more skill ratings (or levels) of a plurality of virtual skills(e.g., steering, braking, speeding, focus), and/or one or more unlockedregions of a virtual game map.

In some embodiments, the process 408 of applying the one or more virtualexperiences includes applying the one or more virtual experiences to apre-selected virtual driver to train the virtual driver. In someexamples, the process 408 of applying the one or more virtualexperiences includes initiating the one or more virtual experiences fora virtual character, such as one selected by a user. In variousexamples, a virtual experience includes a virtual trip, a virtual scene,a virtual occurrence, a virtual event, a virtual incident, a virtualmini-game, and/or a virtual interaction. For example, a virtual tripincludes one or more virtual obstacles configured to be encountered bythe virtual character, where the virtual character may succeed inovercoming based on a plurality of ratings of a plurality of virtualcharacteristics associated with the virtual character.

One or More Computer Devices According to Various Embodiments

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram showing a computer device 5000, accordingto various embodiments of the present disclosure. This diagram is merelyan example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Oneof ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,alternatives, and modifications. In some examples, the computer device5000 includes a processing unit 5002, a memory unit 5004, an input unit5006, an output unit 5008, and a communication unit 5010. In variousexamples, the computer device 5000 is configured to be in communicationwith a user 5100 and/or a storage device 5200. In certain examples, thesystem computer device 5000 is configured according to system 100 ofFIG. 1, system 300 of FIG. 3, to implement method 200 of FIG. 2, and/orto implement method 400 of FIG. 4. Although the above has been shownusing a selected group of components, there can be many alternatives,modifications, and variations. In some examples, some of the componentsmay be expanded and/or combined. Some components may be removed. Othercomponents may be inserted to those noted above. Depending upon theembodiment, the arrangement of components may be interchanged withothers replaced.

In various embodiments, the processing unit 5002 is configured forexecuting instructions, such as instructions to implement method 200 ofFIG. 2 and/or method 400 of FIG. 4. In some embodiments, executableinstructions may be stored in the memory unit 5004. In some examples,the processing unit 5002 includes one or more processing units (e.g., ina multi-core configuration). In certain examples, the processing unit5002 includes and/or is communicatively coupled to one or more modulesfor implementing the systems and methods described in the presentdisclosure. In some examples, the processing unit 5002 is configured toexecute instructions within one or more operating systems, such as UNIX,LINUX, Microsoft Windows®, etc. In certain examples, upon initiation ofa computer-implemented method, one or more instructions is executedduring initialization. In some examples, one or more operations isexecuted to perform one or more processes described herein. In certainexamples, an operation may be general or specific to a particularprogramming language (e.g., C, C #, C++, Java, or other suitableprogramming languages, etc.). In various examples, the processing unit5002 is configured to be operatively coupled to the storage device 5200,such as via an on-board storage unit 5012.

In various embodiments, the memory unit 5004 includes a device allowinginformation, such as executable instructions and/or other data to bestored and retrieved. In some examples, memory unit 5004 includes one ormore computer readable media. In some embodiments, stored in memory unit5004 include computer readable instructions for providing a userinterface, such as to the user 5004, via the output unit 5008. In someexamples, a user interface includes a web browser and/or a clientapplication. In various examples, a web browser enables one or moreusers, such as the user 5004, to display and/or interact with mediaand/or other information embedded on a web page and/or a website. Incertain examples, the memory unit 5004 include computer readableinstructions for receiving and processing an input, such as from theuser 5004, via the input unit 5006. In certain examples, the memory unit5004 includes random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic RAM (DRAM) orstatic RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmableread-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EEPROM), and/or non-volatile RAM (NVRAN).

In various embodiments, the input unit 5006 is configured to receiveinput, such as from the user 5004. In some examples, the input unit 5006includes a keyboard, a pointing device, a mouse, a stylus, a touchsensitive panel (e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen), a gyroscope, anaccelerometer, a position detector (e.g., a Global Positioning System),and/or an audio input device. In certain examples, the input unit 5006,such as a touch screen of the input unit, is configured to function asboth the input unit and the output unit.

In various embodiments, the output unit 5008 includes a media outputunit configured to present information to the user 5004. In someembodiments, the output unit 5008 includes any component capable ofconveying information to the user 5004. In certain embodiments, theoutput unit 5008 includes an output adapter, such as a video adapterand/or an audio adapter. In various examples, the output unit 5008, suchas an output adapter of the output unit, is operatively coupled to theprocessing unit 5002 and/or operatively coupled to an presenting deviceconfigured to present the information to the user, such as via a visualdisplay device (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emittingdiode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, acathode ray tube (CRT) display, an “electronic ink” display, a projecteddisplay, etc.) or an audio display device (e.g., a speaker arrangementor headphones).

In various embodiments, the communication unit 5010 is configured to becommunicatively coupled to a remote device. In some examples, thecommunication unit 5010 includes a wired network adapter, a wirelessnetwork adapter, a wireless data transceiver for use with a mobile phonenetwork (e.g., Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), 3G, 4G, orBluetooth), and/or other mobile data networks (e.g., WorldwideInteroperability for Microwave Access (WIMAX)). In certain examples,other types of short-range or long-range networks may be used. In someexamples, the communication unit 5010 is configured to provide emailintegration for communicating data between a server and one or moreclients.

In various embodiments, the storage unit 5012 is configured to enablecommunication between the computer device 5000, such as via theprocessing unit 5002, and an external storage device 5200. In someexamples, the storage unit 5012 is a storage interface. In certainexamples, the storage interface is any component capable of providingthe processing unit 5002 with access to the storage device 5200. Invarious examples, the storage unit 5012 includes an Advanced TechnologyAttachment (ATA) adapter, a Serial ATA (SATA) adapter, a Small ComputerSystem Interface (SCSI) adapter, a RAID controller, a SAN adapter, anetwork adapter, and/or any other component capable of providing theprocessing unit 5002 with access to the storage device 5200.

In some examples, the storage device 5200 includes any computer-operatedhardware suitable for storing and/or retrieving data. In certainexamples, storage device 5200 is integrated in the computer device 5000.In some examples, the storage device 5200 includes a database, such as alocal database or a cloud database. In certain examples, the storagedevice 5200 includes one or more hard disk drives. In various examples,the storage device is external and is configured to be accessed by aplurality of server systems. In certain examples, the storage deviceincludes multiple storage units such as hard disks or solid state disksin a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) configuration. In someexamples, the storage device 5200 includes a storage area network (SAN)and/or a network attached storage (NAS) system.

One or More Computer Systems According to Various Embodiments

FIG. 6 is a simplified computer system 7000 according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure. This diagram is merely anexample, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One ofordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives,and modifications. In some examples, the system 7000 includes a vehiclesystem 7002, a network 7004, and a server 7006. In certain examples, thesystem 7000, the vehicle system 7002, and/or the server 7006 isconfigured according to system 100 of FIG. 1, system 300 of FIG. 3, toimplement method 200 of FIG. 2, and/or to implement method 400 of FIG.4. Although the above has been shown using a selected group ofcomponents, there can be many alternatives, modifications, andvariations. In some examples, some of the components may be expandedand/or combined. Some components may be removed. Other components may beinserted to those noted above. Depending upon the embodiment, thearrangement of components may be interchanged with others replaced.

In various embodiments, the vehicle system 7002 includes a vehicle 7010and a client device 7012 associated with the vehicle 7010. In variousexamples, the client device 7012 is an on-board computer embedded orlocated in the vehicle 7010. As an example, the client device 7012 is amobile device (e.g., a smartphone) that is connected (e.g., via a wiredconnection or a wireless connection) to the vehicle 7010. In someexamples, the client device 7012 includes a processor 7016 (e.g., acentral processing unit (CPU), and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)),a memory 7018 (e.g., storage unit, random-access memory (RAM), and/orread-only memory (ROM), flash memory), a communications unit 7020 (e.g.,a network transceiver), a display unit 7022 (e.g., a touchscreen), andone or more sensors 7024 (e.g., an accelerometer, a gyroscope, amagnetometer, and/or a GPS sensor).

In various embodiments, the vehicle 7010 is operated by a user. Incertain embodiments, the system 7000 includes multiple vehicles 7010,each vehicle of the multiple vehicles operated by a respective user ofmultiple users. In various examples, the one or more sensors 7024monitors, during one or more vehicle trips, the vehicle 7010 by at leastcollecting data associated with one or more operating parameters of thevehicle, such as speed, speeding, braking, location, engine status,and/or other suitable parameters. In certain examples, the collecteddata include vehicle telematics data. According to some embodiments, thedata are collected continuously, at predetermined time intervals, and/orbased on one or more triggering events (e.g., when a sensor has acquiredmeasurements greater than a threshold amount of sensor measurements). Invarious examples, the data collected by the one or more sensors 7024correspond to user driving data, which may correspond to a driver'sdriving behaviors, in the methods and/or systems of the presentdisclosure.

According to various embodiments, the collected data are stored in thememory 7018 before being transmitted to the server 7006 using thecommunications unit 7020 via the network 7004 (e.g., via a local areanetwork (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet). In someexamples, the collected data are transmitted directly to the server 7006via the network 7004. In certain examples, the collected data aretransmitted to the server 7006 via a third party. In some examples, adata monitoring system, managed or operated by a third party, isconfigured to store data collected by the one or more sensors 7024 andto transmit such data to the server 7006 via the network 7004 or adifferent network.

According to various embodiments, the server 7006 includes a processor7030 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller), a memory 7032 (e.g., astorage unit), a communications unit 7034 (e.g., a network transceiver),and a data storage 7036 (e.g., one or more databases). In some examples,the server 7006 is a single server, while in certain embodiments, theserver 7006 includes a plurality of servers with distributed processingand/or storage. In certain examples, the data storage 7036 is part ofthe server 7006, such as coupled via a network (e.g., the network 7004).In some examples, data, such as processed data and/or results, may betransmitted from the data storage, such as via the communications unit7034, the network 7004, and/or the communications unit 7020, to theclient device 7012, such as for display by the display 7022.

In some examples, the server 7006 includes various software applicationsstored in the memory 7032 and executable by the processor 7030. In someexamples, these software applications include specific programs,routines, and/or scripts for performing functions associated with themethods of the present disclosure. In certain examples, the softwareapplications include general-purpose software applications for dataprocessing, network communication, database management, web serveroperation, and/or other functions typically performed by a server. Invarious examples, the server 7006 is configured to receive, such as viathe network 7004 and via the communications unit 7034, the datacollected by the one or more sensors 7024 from the client device 7012,and stores the data in the data storage 7036. In some examples, theserver 7006 is further configured to process, via the processor 7030,the data to perform one or more processes of the methods of the presentdisclosure.

Examples of Computer Program Product According to Some Embodiments ofthe Present Disclosure

FIGS. 7A-34 depict respective example interfaces associated with variousfunctionalities described herein. In particular, the example interfacesrelate to operation of a virtual vehicle within a virtual environment.In embodiments, a computing device (e.g., the computer device 5000 orcomputer system 7000) may be configured to display the interfaces, wherethe computing device may be located within a vehicle and an operator ofthe vehicle may review the interfaces. It should be appreciated that theinterfaces are merely exemplary, and that additional and alternativecontent is envisioned. In various examples, the example interfacepresents an in-game wallet corresponding to the user and/or a particularvirtual character.

FIG. 7A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an autodrive mode selectionoverlay configured for a user (e.g., player) to select whether to send avirtual character onto one or more automatic virtual drives. In certainexamples, during a virtual drive, the virtual character completes avirtual trip based on a plurality of scores of a plurality of virtualskills (e.g., braking, steering, speeding, focus). In some examples,when the user selects to disable the autodrive mode, the system sendsthe virtual character onto one or more manual virtual drives. In certainexamples, during a manual drive, the virtual character completes avirtual trip based on user input during the virtual trip, such as viaone or more interactive commands on an interactive interface (e.g., of amobile device).

FIG. 7B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of a tripsuccess prediction or an obstacle avoidance success prediction. In someexamples, during an autodrive, a virtual character's likelihood ofsuccess in overcoming an obstacle is shown, for example, as apercentage, and the likelihood of success being determined by acorresponding virtual skill. For example, the depicted obstacle is asteering obstacle, such as a pothole, and the virtual character'slikelihood of success in avoiding the steering obstacle is determined,based at least in part upon the virtual character's virtual steeringskill (e.g., a rating of 2), to be 60%.

FIG. 7C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a virtual map consisting ofvarious roadways, buildings, homes, landscape elements, and/or the like.On the virtual map, the example interface further includes a virtualroute corresponding to a virtual trip, the virtual route including oneor more virtual obstacles to be encountered by a virtual charactershould a user sends the virtual character onto the virtual trip. In thedepicted example, the one or more virtual obstacles include two steeringobstacles. In various examples, the example interface further includes atrip success prediction for a virtual character, such as one selected bya user. The trip success prediction being determined based on aplurality of virtual skills and/or characteristics. In the depictedexample, the trip success prediction is high, as indicated by thedisplayed text of “Your driver has no problem with Hazards here.” In thedepicted example, the virtual character has a virtual steering skillrating of 5, a virtual braking skill rating of 5, a virtual speedingbraking skill rating of 5, and a virtual focus skill rating of 5. In thedepicted example, the interface shows that the virtual character wouldtravel the virtual trip with the autodrive mode activated. In variousexamples, the example interface presents a boost command configured tobe selected by a user, which upon the user's selection, modifies, suchas increases, the likelihood of success of the virtual charactercompleting the virtual trip. In certain examples, the example interfacepresents a drive command configured to be selected by a user, which uponthe user's selection, sends the virtual character onto the virtual trip.In various examples, the example interface presents a plurality ofvirtual characters, each selectable by a user, such as to be trained, tobe sent onto a virtual trip, and to be played in the telematics-basedgame.

FIG. 8A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of a giftreceived by a user or by a virtual character. For example, a gift is aboost drink, which may be referred to as a “driver-ade drink,”configured to be used to increase a virtual character's one or morevirtual skills, such as during one or more virtual trips, such as toimprove a virtual character's likelihood of success in avoiding one ormore virtual obstacles during the one or more virtual trips. In certainexamples, a gift may be sent and received between friends, such asin-game friends of the telematics-based game.

FIG. 8B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map, which may be of abigger size and presented with a three-dimensional perspective, and/orin a second virtual map, which may be of a smaller size and presentedwith a linear road. In certain examples, the first virtual map of theexample interface shows where the virtual character is in a game world,which may include multiple unlockable regions or zones. In certainexamples, the second virtual map of the example interface shows avirtual vehicle associated with a virtual character and one or morevirtual obstacles to be encountered by the virtual vehicle on a virtualtrip. In the depicted example, the example interface shows that theautodrive is activated, indicating that the virtual vehicle willautomatically maneuver itself upon encountering the one or more virtualobstacles. In some examples, the example interface shows a number ofin-game items (e.g. donuts), such as ones to be sold by the virtualcharacter in the telematics-based game, such as to earn in-gamecurrency. In various examples, the example interface allows a user toenter or exit autodrive mode, such as during a virtual trip.

FIG. 9A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to instructa user to record a real drive to unlock a virtual character and anassociated virtual vehicle. In some examples, recording a virtual tripincludes activating one or more sensors on a real vehicle operated bythe user, such as to generate telematics data indicative of the user'sperformance during one or more real trips.

FIG. 9B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip scoring presentationto teach a user how a rating of a real trip, such as one driven by theuser, influences a daily score assignable and/or a reward grantable tothe user or to a virtual character. For example, a rating may be bumpydriving, okay driving, smooth driving, great driving, great driving, orexcellent driving. For example, a reward may be a rankpoint, such as onethat may be accumulated by a user or a virtual character, such as for adaily ranking, weekly ranking, and/or monthly ranking.

FIG. 9C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to instructa user to allow location access, such as to always allow locationaccess, for the system to save the user's real drives, such as even whenthe application is closed in a mobile device.

FIG. 10A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to notifythat a user's device is not equipped with one or more sensors for one ormore functionalities of the telematics-based game, yet the user maystill play the game.

FIG. 10B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to remind auser to record one or more real trips to earn in-game currency.

FIG. 10C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to instructa user to select a virtual character to be trained, such as to earnin-game experience. In some examples, the in-game experience isdetermined based on the user's performance in one or more real trips.

FIG. 11A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip scoring presentationto teach a user how a rating of a real trip, such as one driven by theuser, influences a daily score assignable and/or a reward grantable tothe user or to a virtual character. For example, a rating may be bumpydriving, okay driving, smooth driving, great driving, great driving, orexcellent driving. For example, a reward may be a first in-gamecurrency, which may be referred to as roadpoints, such as one that maybe accumulated and/or used to purchase one or more in-game items of thetelematics-based game. In some examples, the first in-game currency mayonly be earned via the user's real driving during one or more realtrips. In some examples, said in-game items may only be purchased usingthe first in-game currency.

FIG. 11B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a weekly rank presentationto show a user his/her current rank and/or rankpoint accumulation forthe week.

FIG. 11C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to notifythat the user has access to daily scores and weekly rank associated withthe telematics-based game.

FIG. 12A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showing atrip summary, such as a real trip summary, such as an unclaimed tripsummary yet to be applied to a virtual character. In some examples, thetrip summary includes experience gained for one or more skills, such asin-game experience (or skill points) earned for one or more virtualskills. In the depicted example, during a real trip and based at leastin part upon a user's real driving during the real trip, 4900 skillpoints (e.g., skillpoints) or experience was gained for the virtualsteering skill, and 7200 skill points (e.g., skillpoints) or experiencewas gained for the virtual braking skill. In the example interface, areward associated with the real trip is further presented, which mayinclude a level-up for a virtual character and/or roadpoints. In theexample interface, one or more historic real trips and their associatedrewards may be presented to the user. In the example interface, a usermay select one or more completed real trips to apply the rewards to theuser's game profile and/or to a character profile of a virtual characterselected by the user.

FIG. 12B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showing askill level page of a virtual driver. In the depicted example, thedriver level as well as the driving skills have all been maxed out atlevel 5, with the corresponding skill points (e.g., skillpoints) maxedout at 5750 for the virtual character's virtual steering skill, brakingskill, speeding skill, and focus skill.

FIG. 12C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showing aweekly summary for a user, the weekly summary indicating the quantity ofreal trips driven by the user in a given week, a daily score, roadpointsand/or rankpoints earned during each day, and a weekly rank.

FIG. 13A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a crosswalk, which may be abraking obstacle, which upon encountering by the virtual vehicle, may beavoided upon a manual selection, by the user, of the braking command.

FIG. 13B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a red light, which may be abraking obstacle, which upon encountering by the virtual vehicle, may beavoided upon a manual selection, by the user, of the braking command.

FIG. 13C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a greenlight, which is notan obstacle, thus a manual input here to brake or steer would result ina deduction in trip performance.

FIG. 14A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a puddle, which may be asteering obstacle, which upon encountering by the virtual vehicle, maybe avoided upon a manual selection, by the user, of the steeringcommand.

FIG. 14B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a pothole, which may be asteering obstacle, which upon encountering by the virtual vehicle, maybe avoided upon a manual selection, by the user, of the steeringcommand.

FIG. 14C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of anongoing virtual trip, such as in a first virtual map and in a secondvirtual map. In the depicted example, the example interface shows thatmanual drive is activated or that the autodrive is deactivated,indicating that the virtual vehicle will be controlled by a user'sinteraction with one or more selectable commands. In the depictedexample, the virtual vehicle is approaching a car accident, which may bea steering obstacle, which upon encountering by the virtual vehicle, maybe avoided upon a manual selection, by the user, of the steeringcommand.

FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C depicts example interfaces associated with avirtual environment, the example interfaces including presentations ofin-game items purchasable by a user in the telematics-based game. In thedepicted examples, the in-game items are configured to facilitatein-game activities, such as to improve in-game currency earning rate.

FIG. 16A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation of a vehiclecondition of a virtual vehicle associated with a virtual character inthe telematics-based game. In some examples, virtual vehicles may bedamaged upon encountering one or more virtual obstacles. In certainexamples, the degree of damage sustained by a virtual vehicle is atleast dependent on an associated virtual character's one or more virtualskills (e.g., steering, braking, speeding, and/or focus). In variousexamples, the degree of damage sustained by a virtual vehicle is atleast dependent on the difficulty of one or more virtual obstaclesencountered by the virtual vehicle during one or more virtual trips. Insome examples, interface presents a time remaining for a damaged virtualvehicle to be fully repaired, when it may again be sent on virtualtrips.

FIG. 16B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying a user that the more obstacles one fails during a virtualdrive, the more time it would take for a virtual vehicle to be fullyrepaired due to the increased damage sustained.

FIG. 16C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying a user that he/she may initiate virtual trips at various zonesor regions of the game world to gain a variety of rewards.

FIG. 17A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that the telematics-based game includes generalevents that are beneficial to any virtual vehicles of the game, as wellas food events beneficial to only specific virtual vehicles of the game.

FIG. 17B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that during manual mode of the driving game, the useris to tap on a corresponding icon at the right time to succeed incontrolling a virtual vehicle to overcome a corresponding obstacles.

FIG. 17C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that upon encountering a steering obstacle, tap onthe steering icon to avoid the steering obstacle.

FIG. 18A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that upon encountering a braking obstacle, tap on thebraking icon to avoid the braking obstacle.

FIG. 18B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that tapping the correct skill-associated icon earlywill gain a better score than tapping later.

FIG. 18C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that upon encountering a focus obstacle, tap on thefocus icon to avoid the focus obstacle.

FIG. 19A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that upon encountering a speeding obstacle, tap onthe speeding icon to avoid the speeding obstacle.

FIG. 19B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that the user may upgrade appearance and/orbonus-gaining items or features.

FIG. 19C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that the virtual vehicle still need to be parked.

FIG. 20A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that one or more quests have been completed and newquests will be generated at the start of the day.

FIG. 20B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that a virtual character has leveled up a virtualskill (e.g., virtual steering skill, virtual braking skill, virtualfocus skill, or virtual speeding skill), indicating that the virtualcharacter has become more capable in avoiding an associated virtualobstacle.

FIG. 20C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that in a tapping game, the user may tap faster togain points faster.

FIG. 21A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user that in a tapping game, the user may tap at aspecific region to gain points.

FIG. 21B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationnotifying the user to record real life driving to gain roadpoints basedon trip scores.

FIG. 22 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a real driving leaderboard,such as a weekly real driving leaderboard, such as one displaying theuser's current rank against one or more other players of thetelematics-based game. As depicted, the ranking is based on daily scoreearned.

FIG. 23A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a virtual map consisting ofvarious roadways, buildings, homes, landscape elements, and/or the like.On the virtual map, the example interface further includes a virtualroute corresponding to a virtual trip, the virtual route including oneor more virtual obstacles to be encountered by a virtual charactershould a user sends the virtual character onto the virtual trip. In thedepicted example, the one or more virtual obstacles include a focusobstacle, a speeding obstacle, a braking obstacle, and a steeringobstacle. In various examples, the example interface further includes atrip difficulty level of the virtual trip, which may be determined basedon the one or more obstacles of the virtual trip and/or the virtualcharacter's one or more virtual skills. In the depicted example, thetrip difficulty level is 5, and the virtual character has a virtualsteering skill rating of 1, a virtual braking skill rating of 3, avirtual speeding braking skill rating of 5, and a virtual focus skillrating of 1. In the depicted example, the interface shows that thevirtual character would travel the virtual trip with the autodrive modedeactivated. In various examples, the example interface presents a boostcommand configured to be selected by a user, which upon the user'sselection, modifies, such as increases, the likelihood of success of thevirtual character completing the virtual trip. In certain examples, theexample interface presents a drive command configured to be selected bya user, which upon the user's selection, sends the virtual characteronto the virtual trip. In various examples, the example interfacepresents a plurality of virtual characters, each selectable by a user,such as to be trained, to be sent onto a virtual trip, and to be playedin the telematics-based game.

FIG. 23B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a quick repair iconconfigured to be selected by the user to immediately finish a virtualvehicle repair. In some examples, a user may spend a certain amount ofroadpoints to immediately repair a virtual vehicle.

FIG. 24A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip summary of a realtrip driven by a user. As depicted, the interface presents a real mapindicating the route taken by the user in the real trip. As depicted,the interface presents an overall trip score and a plurality of scoresassociated with a plurality of real skills (e.g., steering, braking,speeding, focus). As depicted, the interface presents a trip rating,which as indicated in the example, is “smooth driving.”

FIG. 24B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a real driving leaderboard,such as a weekly real driving leaderboard, such as one displaying theuser's current rank against one or more other players of thetelematics-based game. As depicted, the ranking is based on daily scoreearned.

FIG. 24C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a real map indicating theroute taken by the user in the real trip. As depicted, the real mapincludes one or more real obstacles encountered by the user during thereal trip. In the depicted example, the user encountered three realspeeding obstacles and three real focus obstacles, on the real trip.

FIG. 25A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a rank history notifying auser's historic real-world driving performances, such as weeklyperformances.

FIG. 25B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation to remind auser to record one or more real trips to earn in-game currency.

FIG. 25C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip scoring presentationto teach a user how a rating of a real trip, such as one driven by theuser, influences a daily score assignable and/or a reward grantable tothe user or to a virtual character. For example, a rating may be bumpydriving, okay driving, smooth driving, great driving, great driving, orexcellent driving. For example, a reward may be a first in-gamecurrency, which may be referred to as roadpoints, such as one that maybe accumulated and/or used to purchase one or more in-game items of thetelematics-based game. In some examples, the first in-game currency mayonly be earned via the user's real driving during one or more realtrips. In some examples, said in-game items may only be purchased usingthe first in-game currency.

FIGS. 26A and 26B depict example interfaces associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interfaces displaying a character selectionmenu configured to present a plurality of selectable virtual charactersand their plurality of virtual skill levels.

FIG. 27A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a weekly performance of auser or a virtual character. In the depicted example, the weeklyperformance includes skill ratings of a plurality of real skills.

FIG. 27B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip scoring presentationto teach a user how a rating of a real trip, such as one driven by theuser, influences a daily score assignable and/or a reward grantable tothe user or to a virtual character. For example, a rating may be bumpydriving, okay driving, smooth driving, great driving, great driving, orexcellent driving. For example, a reward may be a rankpoint, such as onethat may be accumulated by a user or a virtual character, such as for adaily ranking, weekly ranking, and/or monthly ranking.

FIG. 27C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a weekly rank presentationto show a user his/her current rank and/or rankpoint accumulation forthe week.

FIG. 28A depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationto notify a user that the game may record and rate real driving of theuser to help identify whether the user is a defensive driver.

FIG. 28B depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationto notify a user that roadpoints may be used in-game to perform certaintasks.

FIG. 28C depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including an explanatory presentationto notify a user that the user may select a virtual character from aplurality of virtual characters to train, such as by operating a realvehicle with good habits during a real trip.

FIG. 29 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip summary of a realtrip driven by a user. As depicted, the interface presents a real mapindicating the route taken by the user in the real trip. As depicted,the interface presents an overall trip score and a plurality of scoresassociated with a plurality of real skills (e.g., steering, braking,speeding, focus). As depicted, the interface presents a trip rating,which as indicated in the example, is “great driving.” As depicted, theinterface further presents rewards earned during the real trip, such asa trainee level-up and roadpoints.

FIG. 30 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showingexperience gained for one or more skills, such as in-game experience (orskill points) earned for one or more virtual skills. In the depictedexample, 4500 skill points (e.g., skillpoints) were gained for thevirtual steering skill, 4500 skill points (e.g., skillpoints) weregained for the virtual braking skill, 4500 skill points (e.g.,skillpoints) were gained for the virtual speeding skill, and 4000 skillpoints (e.g., skillpoints) were gained for the virtual focus skill.

FIG. 31 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a rank history notifying auser's historic real-world driving performances, such as weeklyperformances.

FIG. 32 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showing askill level page of a virtual driver. In the depicted example, thevirtual driver is at level one, and has a virtual steering skill levelof 3, a virtual braking skill level of 3, a virtual speeding skill levelof 2, and a virtual focus level of 2.

FIG. 33 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a trip summary of a realtrip driven by a user. As depicted, the interface presents a real mapindicating the route taken by the user in the real trip. As depicted,the interface presents an overall trip score and a plurality of scoresassociated with a plurality of real skills (e.g., steering, braking,speeding, focus). As depicted, the interface presents a trip rating,which as indicated in the example, is “great driving.” As depicted, theinterface further presents rewards earned during the real trip, such asa trainee level-up and roadpoints.

FIG. 34 depicts an example interface associated with a virtualenvironment, the example interface including a presentation showing aweekly summary for a user, the weekly summary indicating the quantity ofreal trips driven by the user in a given week, a daily score, roadpointsand/or rankpoints earned during each day, and a weekly rank.

Examples of Certain Embodiments of the Present Disclosure

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to telematicsdata processing. More particularly, some embodiments of the disclosureprovide methods and systems for training a virtual operator based atleast in part upon a real-world vehicle operator. Merely by way ofexample, some embodiments of the disclosure includes connecting one ormore real-world driving behaviors of a real-world vehicle operator toone or more driving behavior of a virtual operator in a telematics-basedgame, but it would be recognized that the disclosure has a much broaderrange of applicability.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide entertainment to a user, wherein the entertainment is generatedbased at least in part upon telematics data associated with the user. Insome examples, the entertainment is a telematics-based game playable bythe user.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide one or more indicators associated with the driving behavior of adriver based at least in part upon telematics data associated with thedriver. In some examples, systems and/or methods of the presentdisclosure modify an insurance policy of the driver based at least inpart upon the driving behavior, such as through recurring automaticpolicy-updates. In some examples, such automatic policy-updates act asan incentive for the driver to improve their driving behavior.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a calibration session for calibrating one or more base scorescorresponding to one or more driving characteristics (e.g., speeding,braking, steering, focus). In some examples, systems and methods providea plurality of driving sessions, each driving session of the pluralityof driving sessions corresponds to a set of driving scores, and each setof driving scores corresponds to a set of driving characteristics (e.g.,speeding, braking, steering, focus).

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game, which may be called Foodtruck Fury or Food Truck Fury,that allows Google sign-up and/or Facebook sign-up. In some examples,the game provided is a tapper genre game, such as one including buttonsfor steering, braking, accelerating, and/or focusing. In some examples,the game provided includes a Food Truck Park where one or more foodtrucks may operate. In some examples, each food truck is associated withone virtual driver. In some examples, each virtual driver can level up,such as via in-game interactions and/or based on one or more drivingbehaviors of an associated real-world driver.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including a game map having a plurality of regions, someof which may be unlockable, such as being inaccessible by a food truckuntil it is unlocked.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including a food truck having a plurality of food items,some of which may be unlockable, such as being unavailable for saleuntil it is unlocked.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including one or more story-based missions, game controlstutorials, zombie-based story.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including roadpoints (or other currencies under adifferent name) earnable by a user and/or a driver. For example,roadpoints may be earned by a driver via driving in the real world. Insome examples, the amount of roadpoints earned by a driver correspondsto the driving behavior of the driver during the real-world drive. Forexample, the better the driver drives in the real world, the greater theamount of roadpoints the driver is awarded. In certain examples, theroadpoints are a type of hard currency, such as one that can only beearned via real-world driving, such as cannot be earned by purchasingwith real-world currencies (e.g., United States Dollars). In someexamples, the roadpoints may be used to upgrade a virtual driver, a foodtruck, and/or a food park, and/or to purchase items, equipment, gifts,and/or recipes. In certain examples, systems and methods of the presentdisclosure provide a game including a soft currency (e.g., regularpoints/dollars), which may be used to upgrade a virtual driver, a foodtruck, and/or a food park, and/or to purchase items, equipment, gifts,and/or recipes. In some examples, one or more types of purchases orupgrades available via the use of hard currency is not available via theuse of soft currency.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including receiving telematics data associated with adriver/player/user, such as data collected using GPS, accelerometer,and/or gyroscope. In some examples, systems and/or methods of thepresent disclosure provide a game including granting roadpoints based atleast in part upon the received telematics data.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including a virtual driver trainable (e.g., having levelsfor leveling up, corresponding to one or more virtual driver's drivingcharacteristics) by a real-world driver, such as based at least in partupon telematics data associated with the real-world driver. In someexamples, systems and/or methods of the present disclosure provide agame including a plurality of virtual drivers (e.g., each virtual drivercorresponding to a food truck of a plurality of food trucks) trainableby a real-world driver, such as one at a time. For example, auser/driver/player may select one virtual driver from the plurality ofvirtual drivers as a trainee, such as one who gains experience based atleast in part upon one or more driving behaviors of the real-worlddriver. In some examples, the same trainee can gain experience and/orlevel up through one or more driving trips driven by the real-worlddriver, such as until the user/player/driver selects another virtualdriver as a new trainee. In some examples, one or more virtual driversmay have driving scores (e.g., corresponding to driving characteristics)different from that of the real-world driver, such as owing to theone-on-one training mechanism. In various examples, a virtual driverlevels up, such as when selected as a trainee, faster if the real-worlddrive showed better driving behavior (e.g., having higher driving scorescorresponding to one or more driving characteristics). In some examples,each driving trip of the real-world driver may be graded, such asExcellent, Great, Fair, or Bumpy, which may influence how the virtualdriver levels.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including mini games that a player may play to level upthe virtual drivers.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including a manual-drive mode, which when activated, thein-game food truck driven by the virtual driver is controlled by theplayer. In some examples, systems and methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including an auto-drive mode, which when activated (e.g.,by a player), would send an in-game food truck driven by the virtualdriver on autopilot. For example, under auto-drive mode, a food truckmay automatically drive to a destination without a player's interactionand/or automatically deliver food items at one or more destinations. Insome examples, under auto-drive mode, a virtual driver may be sent onone or more tasks/missions/challenges, which the success rate/chance ofcompleting each task of the one or more tasks corresponds to at leastthe levels of the driver characteristics of the virtual driver. Invarious examples, a player may control a plurality of food truckssimultaneously (e.g., spinning gameplay), such as by managing the tasksexecutable by the virtual drivers. In some examples, one or more zonesof the map are harder zones having tasks of higher levels, which maycorrespond to the need for a virtual driver to have higher levels inorder to have a high success rate in auto-drive mode.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game for a player to play during a first time period, driveduring a second time period (e.g., without playing the game), then claimreward in a third time period based at least in part upon the drivingperformed in the second time period. In some examples, the game limitsrewardable driving trips to a specific number (e.g., three) per day.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game for incentivizing a driver, as a player of the game, todrive better, such as for incentivizing improving in the drivingcharacteristics of steering, braking, speeding, and/or focus.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including social network support, such as one allowingincorporation of one or more friend lists. In some examples, gifts maybe sent between players, such as to friends, such as by sending a foodtruck to deliver said gifts. In some examples, the gift may depend onthe rating of a virtual driver. In certain examples, each player isranked weekly.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including a game map that is shared by various players,such as at different instances. In some examples, the game map is aghost map of a real-world map. For example, as a ghost map, thereal-world driving of a driver who is a player of the game, would travelin the virtual map according to the real-world driving.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game including collaborative modes, such as a collaborativeassault mode for multiple player to assault a city together.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game with large player base, such as one imposed with an agelimit and/or without a verification of insurance policy.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game with driving score and/or level tracking over time.

In certain embodiments, systems and/or methods of the present disclosureprovide a game where the actual driving of a real-world driver interactswith the virtual driving of the virtual driver in the game.

Examples of Systems According to Some Embodiments of the PresentDisclosure

The present embodiments may relate to, inter alia, facilitating virtualoperation of virtual vehicles within a virtual environment based onreal-world vehicle operation data. The present embodiments may furtherrelate to presenting the virtual operation of the virtual vehicles in auser interface for review by real-life operators of real-life vehicles.

According to certain aspects, systems and methods may generate a datamodel representative of real-life operation of a real-life vehicle by areal-life operator, where the data model may include various performancecharacteristics and metrics. Additionally, the data model may indicatecertain real-life routes, roadways, or the like on which the real-lifevehicle has operated, along with the frequency of such operation. Thesystems and methods may access the data model and, based on the datamodel, may determine operation of a virtual vehicle within a virtualenvironment, where the operation may include a set of virtual movementsor maneuvers for the virtual vehicle to undertake within the virtualenvironment.

Additionally, the systems and methods may display, in a user interface,a visual representation of the virtual operation of the virtual vehiclefor review by the real-life operator. The systems and methods mayperiodically or continuously update the virtual operation based onupdated real-life vehicle operation data. In some scenarios, thereal-life operator may recognize certain limitations and areas forimprovement in the virtual operation of the virtual vehicle. Because thevirtual operation of the virtual vehicle is based on the real-lifeoperation of the real-life vehicle, the real-life operator may bemotivated to modify or adjust his/her real-life vehicle operation inorder to correct or address the limitations and areas for improvementidentified in the virtual operation of the virtual vehicle. For example,the real-life operator may ascertain that he/she travels too fast on awork commute, and may make efforts to reduce his/her speed.

The systems and methods therefore offer numerous benefits. Inparticular, by incorporating virtual vehicle operation that correspondsto real-world vehicle operation, the systems and methods may effectivelypenetrate psychological barriers that vehicle operators possess indecreasing the perceived low risks associated with vehicle operation.Accordingly, vehicular safety may improve, thereby increasing the safetyof vehicle operators and those otherwise affected by vehicle operation.

The embodiments as discussed herein describe virtual vehicle operationand real-life vehicle operation. It should be appreciated that the term“virtual” describes simulated features, components, individuals, and thelike, that do not physically exist, have not physically occurred, or arenot physically occurring in the real-world environment, but is rathermade by software and hardware components to appear to physically exist.Further, it should be appreciated that the term “real-life” or“real-world” (or, in some cases, components without mention of the term“virtual”), in contrast, describes actual features, components,individuals, and the like, that do physically exist, have physicallyoccurred, or are physically occurring in the real-world environment. Insome embodiments, the virtual vehicle operation may be at leastpartially embodied in augmented reality, wherein virtual display datamay be overlaid on real-world image data.

For example, a vehicle may be, an automobile, car, truck, tow truck,snowplow, boat, motorcycle, motorbike, scooter, recreational vehicle, orany other type of vehicle capable of roadway or water travel. Accordingto some examples, the vehicle may be capable of operation by a vehicleoperator, and may be capable of at least partial (or total) autonomousoperation by a computer via the collection and analysis of varioussensor data.

In various embodiments, a system or of the present disclosure may bepermanently or removably installed in a vehicle, and may generally be anon-board computing device capable of performing various functionalitiesrelating to analyzing vehicle operation data and facilitating virtualvehicle operation (and, in some cases, at least partial autonomousvehicle operation). Thus, the system may be particularly configured withparticular elements to thereby be able to perform functions relating tothese functionalities. Further, the computer may be installed by themanufacturer of the vehicle, or as an aftermarket modification oraddition to the vehicle.

In various embodiments, a system of the present disclosure may includean electronic device that may be associated with a vehicle, where theelectronic device may be any type of electronic device such as a mobiledevice (e.g., a smartphone), notebook computer, tablet, phablet, GPS(Global Positioning System) or GPS-enabled device, smart watch, smartglasses, smart bracelet, wearable electronic, PDA (personal digitalassistants), pager, computing device configured for wirelesscommunication, and/or the like. The electronic device may include alocation module (e.g., a GPS chip), an image sensor, an accelerometer, aclock, a gyroscope, a compass, a yaw rate sensor, a tilt sensor, and/orother sensors. In some examples, an electronic device may belong to orbe otherwise associated with an individual, where the individual may bean operator of the vehicle or otherwise associated with the vehicle. Forexample, the individual may own the vehicle, may rent the vehicle for avariable or allotted time period, or may operate vehicle as part of aride share. According to embodiments, the individual may carry orotherwise have possession of the electronic device during operation ofthe vehicle.

In various embodiments, a computer may operate in conjunction with anelectronic device to perform any or all of the functions describedherein as being performed by the vehicle. In other embodiments, thecomputer may perform all of the functionalities described herein, inwhich case the electronic device may not be present or may not beconnected to the computer. In still other embodiments, the electronicdevice may perform all of the functionalities described herein. Stillfurther, in some embodiments, the computer and/or the electronic devicemay perform any or all of the functions described herein in conjunctionwith one or more of the back-end components. For example, in someembodiments or under certain conditions, the electronic device and/orthe computer may function as client devices that outsource some or mostof the processing to one or more of the back-end components.

In various examples, a computer and/or an electronic device maycommunicatively interface with one or more on-board sensors that aredisposed on or within a vehicle and that may be utilized to monitor thevehicle and the environment in which the vehicle is operating. Inparticular, the one or more on-board sensors may sense conditionsassociated with the vehicle and/or associated with the environment inwhich the vehicle is operating, and may generate sensor data indicativeof the sensed conditions. For example, the sensor data may include alocation and/or operation data indicative of operation of the vehicle.In some configurations, at least some of the on-board sensors may befixedly disposed at various locations on the vehicle.

Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the on-board sensors maybe incorporated within or connected to the computer. Still additionallyor alternatively, in some configurations, at least some of the on-boardsensors may be included on or within the electronic device. In someexamples, the on-board sensors may communicate respective sensor data tothe computer and/or to the electronic device, and the sensor data may beprocessed using the computer and/or the electronic device to determinewhen the vehicle is in operation as well as determine informationregarding operation of the vehicle. In some situations, the on-boardsensors may communicate respective sensor data indicative of theenvironment in which the vehicle is operating.

According to embodiments, the sensors may include one or more of a GPSunit, a radar unit, a LIDAR unit, an ultrasonic sensor, an infraredsensor, some other type of electromagnetic energy sensor, a microphone,a radio (e.g., to support wireless emergency alerts or an emergencyalert system), an inductance sensor, a camera, an accelerometer, anodometer, a system clock, a gyroscope, a compass, a geo-location orgeo-positioning unit, a location tracking sensor, a proximity sensor, atachometer, a speedometer, and/or the like. Some of the on-board sensors(e.g., GPS, accelerometer, or tachometer units) may provide sensor dataindicative of, for example, the vehicle's location, speed, positionspeeding, direction, responsiveness to controls, movement, etc.

Other sensors may be directed to the interior or passenger compartmentof the vehicle, such as cameras, microphones, pressure sensors, weightsensors, thermometers, or similar sensors to monitor any passengers,operations of instruments included in the vehicle, operational behaviorsof the vehicle, and/or conditions within the vehicle. For example,on-board sensors directed to the interior of the vehicle may providesensor data indicative of, for example, in-cabin temperatures, in-cabinnoise levels, data from seat sensors (e.g., indicative of whether or notan individual is using a seat, and thus the number of passengers beingtransported by the vehicle), data from seat belt sensors, data regardingthe operations of user controlled devices such as windshield wipers,defrosters, traction control, mirror adjustment, interactions withon-board user interfaces, etc. Additionally, the on-board sensors mayfurther detect and monitor the health of the occupant(s) of the vehicle(e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, blood sugar, temperature, etc.).Moreover, the on-board sensors may additionally detect various criminalacts, including auto thefts, car jackings, and/or the like. In thesescenarios, the vehicle may initiate communications to relevantresponders (e.g., a police station) of the detected act(s).

Some of the sensors disposed at the vehicle (e.g., radar, LIDAR, camera,or other types of units that operate by using electromagnetic energy)may actively or passively scan the environment external to the vehiclefor obstacles (e.g., emergency vehicles, other vehicles, buildings,pedestrians, trees, gates, barriers, animals, etc.) and their movement,weather conditions (e.g., precipitation, wind, visibility, ortemperature), roadways, road conditions (e.g., lane markings, potholes,road material, traction, or slope), road topography, traffic conditions(e.g., traffic density, traffic congestion, etc.), signs or signals(e.g., traffic signals, speed limits, other jurisdictional signage,construction signs, building signs or numbers, or control gates), and/orother information indicative of the environment of the vehicle.Information or data that is generated or received by the on-boardsensors may be communicated to the computer and/or to the electronicdevice.

In some embodiments, systems of the present disclosure may include or becommunicatively connected to one or more data storage devices orentities, which may be adapted to store data related to the operation ofthe vehicle, the environment and context in which the vehicle isoperating, and/or other information. For example, the one or more datastorage devices may be implemented as a data bank or a cloud datastorage system, at least a portion of which may be locally accessed bysystems of the present disclosure using a local access mechanism such asa function call or database access mechanism, and/or at least a portionof which may be remotely accessed by the systems of the presentdisclosure using a remote access mechanism such as a communicationprotocol. The systems of the present disclosure may access data storedin the one or more data storage devices when executing various functionsand tasks associated with the present disclosure.

In various embodiments, systems of the present disclosure may furtherinclude a set of third-party sources, which may be any system, entity,repository, or the like, capable of obtaining and storing data that maybe indicative of situations and circumstances associated with vehicleoperation, or data associated with the operator of a vehicle. Forexample, one of the third-party sources may be a social network providerstoring a set of contacts or connections associated with the operator ofthe vehicle. In some examples, the set of third-party sources may beincluded as part of the one or more data storage devices. Inembodiments, the third-party source(s) may store data indicative ofvehicle operation regulations. For example, the third-party source maystore speed limit information, direction of travel information, laneinformation, and/or similar information. The third-party source(s) mayalso maintain or obtain real-time data indicative of traffic signals forroadways (e.g., which traffic signals currently have red lights or greenlights). It should be appreciated that the one or more data storagedevices or entities may additionally or alternatively store the dataindicative of vehicle operation regulations.

In some embodiments, systems of the present disclosure includes acommunication component configured to transmit information to andreceive information from other external sources, such as emergencyvehicles, other vehicles and/or infrastructure or environmentalcomponents disposed within the environment of the vehicle. Thecommunication component may include one or more wireless transmitters ortransceivers operating at any desired or suitable frequency orfrequencies.

In some embodiments, the systems of the present disclosure may includeone or more environmental communication components or devices that maybe used for monitoring the status of one or more system componentsand/or for receiving data generated by other sensors that may beassociated with, or may detect or be detected by, the vehicle anddisposed at locations that are off-board the vehicle. As generallyreferred to herein, with respect to a vehicle, “off-board sensors” or“environmental sensors” are sensors that are not transported by thevehicle. The data collected by the off-board sensors is generallyreferred to herein as “sensor data,” “off-board sensor data,” or“environmental sensor data” with respect to the vehicle.

At least some of the off-board sensors may be disposed on or at the oneor more infrastructure components or other types of components that arefixedly disposed within the environment in which a vehicle is traveling.In some examples, infrastructure components may include roadways,bridges, traffic signals, gates, switches, crossings, parking lots orgarages, toll booths, docks, hangars, or other similar physical portionsof a transportation system's infrastructure, for example. Other types ofinfrastructure components at which off-board sensors may be disposed mayinclude a traffic light, a street sign, a railroad crossing signal, aconstruction notification sign, a roadside display configured to displaymessages, a billboard display, a parking garage monitoring device, etc.Off-board sensors that are disposed on or near infrastructure componentsmay generate data relating to the presence and location of obstacles orof the infrastructure component itself, weather conditions, trafficconditions, operating status of the infrastructure component, and/orbehaviors of various vehicles, pedestrians, and/or other moving objectswithin the vicinity of the infrastructure component, for example.

In some embodiments, one or more environmental communication devices maybe communicatively connected (either directly or indirectly) to one ormore off-board sensors, and thereby may receive information relating tothe condition and/or location of the infrastructure components, of theenvironment surrounding the infrastructure components, and/or of theother vehicle(s) or objects within the environment of the vehicle. Insome examples, the one or more environmental communication devices mayreceive and/or transmit information from the vehicle.

According to some embodiments, a computer and/or an electronic devicemay retrieve or otherwise access data from any combination of thesensors where the data is generated during real-world operation of thevehicle by the operator. The computer and/or the electronic device maygenerate a data model that is representative of the real-world operationof the vehicle by the operator, where the data model may include datarelated to performance characteristics associated with the real-worldoperation.

Additionally, the computer and/or the electronic device may facilitatevirtual operation of a virtual vehicle by a virtual operator within avirtual environment. In particular, the virtual operation may be basedon the data model representative of the real-world operation of thevehicle. According to embodiments, either or both of the computer andthe electronic device may be configured with a user interface configuredto present or display content. The computer and/or the electronic devicemay cause the user interface(s) to display or present the virtualenvironment, and depict the virtual operation of the virtual vehicle bythe virtual operator within the virtual environment. Additionally, theuser interface(s) may present statistics, data, and other informationassociated with the virtual operation of the virtual vehicle for reviewby the operator of the vehicle.

In various embodiments, a system of the present disclosure includes amemory, a set of sensors, a processor, a user interface, and a server(such as a server associated with a remote computing system). Accordingto some examples, the processor and the user interface may be embodiedwithin an electronic device associated with a vehicle and the set orsensors may be disposed on, throughout, or within various portions ofthe vehicle.

In various embodiments, a system of the present disclosure is configuredto generate, via the set of sensors, a set of vehicle operation datathat reflects operation of the vehicle by the operator. In someexamples, the set of sensors may generate the set of vehicle operationdata continuously or over the course or one or more time periods. Insome examples, the set of sensors may provide the set of vehicleoperation data to the processor, such as in real-time or near-real-timeas the set of sensors generates the set of vehicle operation data.

In various embodiments, the processor may generate a data model based atleast in part upon a portion of the set of vehicle operation data, wherethe data model may generally represent operation of the vehicle by theoperator. In an embodiment, the data model may reflect the followingvehicle operation or performance characteristics: speeding, braking,and/or steering, where each characteristic may have a relativeperformance associated therewith. For example, each vehicle operationcharacteristic in the data model may have a number rating on a scalefrom one (1) to ten (10).

In various embodiments, the processor may generate the data modelaccording to various data analysis techniques, calculations, algorithms,and/or the like. Generally, the data analysis techniques process andanalyze the raw sensor data and generate a set of information (e.g.,structured information) from which vehicle operation metrics may beidentified or determined. For example, the processor may process rawangular and linear speeding data, and may generate, for the data model,metrics corresponding to the speeding, braking, and steering performanceof the vehicle operator. After generating the data model, the processormay provide the data model to the memory. Subsequently, the memory maystore the data model.

In some embodiments, the processor may initiate a virtual trip, such asin response to a selection by a user (e.g., the operator of thevehicle), in response to an occurrence of a condition, or automaticallyat a certain time. According to embodiments, the virtual trip may havean associated virtual vehicle that is operated by a virtual operatorwithin a virtual environment. In association with initiating the virtualtrip, the processor may cause the user interface to display certainvisual content associated with the virtual trip. For example, the userinterface may display an indication of the virtual vehicle on a virtualmap, and/or other content. Certain aspects of the virtual trip may beselectable or configurable by the operator, such as via the userinterface, as further discussed herein. For example, the operator mayselect different virtual operators to “train” or accumulate statisticsusing the data model.

In some embodiments, prior to, after, or concurrently with initiatingthe virtual trip, the processor may retrieve the data model from thememory. In an optional implementation, the processor may additionallyretrieve additional data (e.g., social networking data) from the server.According to embodiments, the social network data may be based on one ormore contacts of the operator, where the one or more contacts may haveone or more associated additional virtual vehicles with one or moreadditional virtual vehicle operators. Virtual operation of the one ormore additional virtual vehicles may be based on one or more additionaldata models associated with real-life vehicle operation by the one ormore contacts of the operator. According to embodiments, the virtualtrip associated with the virtual operator may reflect at least some ofthe virtual operation of the one or more additional virtual vehicles, asfurther discussed herein.

In various embodiments, after retrieving the data model, the processormay determine, based on at least part of the data model, a set ofvirtual vehicle movements for the virtual vehicle. Generally, the set ofvirtual vehicle movements may reflect the vehicle operationcharacteristics included in the data model, where the relativeperformance level(s) of the set of virtual vehicle movements maycorrespond to the relative performance level(s) of the vehicle operationcharacteristics. For example, if the data model reflects that theoperator has a score of 8.5 out of 10.0 in the speeding characteristicin real-life vehicle operation, the corresponding virtual vehicleoperator may also have a score of 8.5 out of 10.0 in a virtual speedingcharacteristic, for which the set of virtual vehicle movements mayaccount (i.e., the speeding of the virtual vehicle is very good). In anadditional example, if the data model reflects that the operator has ascore of 3.0 out of 10.0 in the steering characteristic in real-lifevehicle operation, the corresponding virtual vehicle operator may alsohave a score of 3.0 out of 10.0 in a virtual steering characteristic,for which the set of virtual vehicle movements may account (i.e., thesteering of the virtual vehicle is not good).

According to some embodiments, the set of virtual vehicle movements maybe associated with one or more vignettes or scenes that may beincorporated into or associated with the virtual environment. Generally,a vignette may be a virtual recreation of an encounter or driving eventthat may occur in real life. For example, a vignette may be a virtualvehicle's interaction with a pedestrian walkway (i.e., the approach to,stopping at, and speeding from the pedestrian walkway); another vignettemay be a virtual vehicle's approach to and right-hand turn through a redlight; and another vignette may be a virtual vehicle's switching lanesin traffic. It should be appreciated that additional vignettes areenvisioned.

In some embodiments, the processor may determine a set of virtualvehicle movements in associated with a given vignette based on arelevant portion of the data model. For example, for a pedestriancrosswalk vignette, if the data model indicates that the operator isprone to sudden stopping, a virtual vehicle movement may be a suddenstop by the virtual vehicle upon approach to the pedestrian crosswalk.As another example, for a right-hand turn through a red light vignette,if the data model indicates that the operator comes to a full stop atred lights prior to a right-hand turn, a virtual vehicle movement maysimilarly be a full stop by the virtual vehicle upon approach to the redlight prior to turning right.

According to alternative or additional embodiments, the set of virtualvehicle movements may be associated with a game or challenge that may beincorporated into or associated with the virtual environment. Generally,a game may have a set of goals or challenges to be carried out by avirtual vehicle within the virtual environment. For example, a game maybe a simulated delivery of one or more products or goods from a firstvirtual location to a second virtual location; and another game may be aride share simulation facilitated by the virtual vehicle from a firstvirtual location to a second virtual location. It should be appreciatedthat additional games are envisioned.

In some embodiments, the processor may determine a set of virtualvehicle movements associated with a given game based on a relevantportion of the data model. For example, for a delivery game, if the datamodel indicates that the operator is prone to sudden speeding, a virtualvehicle movement may be a sudden speeding by the virtual vehicle uponinitiating a delivery from a first location. As another example, for aride sharing simulation with the virtual vehicle transporting a virtualpassenger, if the data model indicates that the operator is prone tosudden stops, a virtual vehicle movement may be a sudden stop by thevirtual vehicle approaching a stop sign.

In certain embodiments, after determining the set of virtual vehiclemovements, the processor may provide data indicative of the set ofvirtual vehicle movements to the user interface. In turn, the userinterface may display the set of virtual vehicle movements inassociation with the virtual trip. In some examples, the user interfacemay periodically or continuously display and update the virtual tripaccording to the determined set of virtual vehicle movements.

In embodiments, the operator of the vehicle may view the virtual tripdisplayed by the user interface, as well as any vignettes or gamesincluded therein. By viewing the virtual trip, the operator may beinclined or motived to adjust real-world vehicle operating behavior,especially to improve aspects or areas that may need improvement. Forexample, if the operator notices that the virtual operator is prone tosudden or hectic lane changes, the operator may make an effort toexecute smoother real-life lane changes. As an additional example, ifthe operator notices that the virtual operator speeds through virtualschool zones, the operator may make an effort to slow down throughreal-life school zones.

In some embodiments, if the virtual trip is associated with a game orchallenge, the processor may determine a virtual reward based on thevirtual operation of the virtual vehicle in association with the virtualtrip, such as by determining that the virtual vehicle has achieved avirtual goal within the virtual environment (where the virtual rewardmay correspond to the virtual goal). Additionally, the processor mayapply the virtual reward to an account of the operator.

In various embodiments, the user interface may display, such as uponcompletion of a real-world trip, a virtual trip summary of an associatedvirtual trip, where the virtual trip summary may contain scores, points,achievements, or the like, which may be associated with any vignettes orgames included in the virtual trip. Additional or alternatively, thevirtual trip summary may contain ratings for certain virtual vehicleoperation characteristics for the corresponding virtual driver, whichmay correspond to the vehicle operation characteristics for the operatorincluded in the data model. Accordingly, the operator may review thevirtual trip summary and be motivated to modify or improve anyreal-world driving behaviors in response to reviewing the virtual tripsummary.

Examples of Various Embodiments of the Present Disclosure

According to various embodiments, a computer-implemented method forgranting game resources of a telematics-based game, the methodcomprising: receiving telematics data associated with one or more realtrips during which a user operated a real vehicle; determining, based atleast in part upon the telematics data, a plurality of skill pointsassociated with a plurality of real skills exhibited by the user duringthe one or more real trips; receiving, from the user, a selection of avirtual character, the virtual character having a character profile anda plurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; training the virtual character by at least updating, based atleast in part upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality ofvirtual ratings; generating, based at least in part upon the characterprofile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; determining, based at least in part upon a pluralityof virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; determining, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, a first quantity of a first game resource atleast for purchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifyingitems being exclusively purchasable using the first game resource;updating the character profile by granting the first quantity of thefirst game resource to the virtual character; upon receiving the user'sselection to use a first outcome-modifying item: updating the one ormore outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; and determining,based at least in part upon the updated one or more outcomes, a secondquantity of a second game resource at least for purchasing charactercosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, and/or unlocking regions ofa virtual map; and updating the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character; andpresenting the updated character profile to the user. In some examples,the method is implemented according to method 200 of FIG. 2, and/ormethod 400 of FIG. 4, and/or configured to be implemented by system 100of FIG. 1, system 300 of FIG. 3, device 5000 of FIG. 5, and/or system7000 of FIG. 6.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes one or more virtual obstacles to be encountered bythe virtual character.

In some embodiments, each outcome of the one or more outcomes correspondto a likelihood of success of the virtual character overcoming the oneor more virtual obstacles in each virtual occurrence of the one or morevirtual occurrences.

In some embodiments, the plurality of real skills includes a realsteering skill, a real braking skill, a real speeding skill, and/or areal focus skill. In some examples, the plurality of virtual skillsincludes a virtual steering skill, a virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding skill, and/or a virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes a steering difficulty corresponding to one or morevirtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty corresponding to one ormore virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty corresponding toone or more virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficultycorresponding to one or more virtual focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining the one or more outcomes includesdetermining the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, generating the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes generating the one or more virtual occurrences based further inpart upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, updating the character profile includes updating avehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with the virtualcharacter. In some examples, the vehicle condition is indicative of adegree of damage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or morevirtual occurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, presenting the updated character profile includespresenting the updated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to theuser.

In some embodiments, training the virtual character includes updating,based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, a pluralityof fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtual skills. In someexamples, training the virtual character further includes increasing oneor more virtual ratings of the plurality of virtual ratings upon any ofthe fill-levels of the plurality of fill-levels exceeding one or morepredetermined fill targets.

According to various embodiments, a system for granting game resourcesof a telematics-based game, the system comprising: a data receivingmodule configured to receive telematics data associated with one or morereal trips during which a user operated a real vehicle; a skill pointdetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe telematics data, a plurality of skill points associated with aplurality of real skills exhibited by the user during the one or morereal trips; a user input module configured to receive, from the user, aselection of a virtual character, the virtual character having acharacter profile and a plurality of virtual ratings associated with aplurality of virtual skills; a character training module configured totrain the virtual character by at least updating, based at least in partupon the plurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; avirtual occurrence generating module configured to generate, based atleast in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; an outcomedetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe plurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated withthe one or more virtual occurrences; a game resource determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the plurality ofskill points, a first quantity of a first game resource at least forpurchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items beingexclusively purchasable using the first game resource; a characterprofile updating module configured to update the character profile bygranting the first quantity of the first game resource to the virtualcharacter. In some examples, the outcome determining module is furtherconfigured to update the one or more outcomes according to apredetermined adjustment. In some examples, the game resourcedetermining module is further configured to determine, based at least inpart upon the updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of asecond game resource at least for purchasing character cosmeticupgrades, unlocking in-game items, and/or unlocking regions of a virtualmap. In some examples, the character profile updating module is furtherconfigured to update the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character. In someexamples, the system further includes a presenting module configured topresent the updated character profile to the user. In some examples, thesystem is configured accordingly to system 100 of FIG. 1, system 300 ofFIG. 3, device 5000 of FIG. 5, and/or system 7000 of FIG. 6, and/orconfigured to perform method 200 of FIG. 2, and/or method 400 of FIG. 4.

In some embodiments, the outcome determining module is configured todetermine the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon: aplurality of occurrence difficulties including a steering difficultyassociated with one or more virtual steering obstacles, a brakingdifficulty associated with one or more virtual braking obstacles, aspeeding difficulty associated with one or more virtual speedingobstacles, and/or a focus difficulty associated with one or more virtualfocus obstacles. In some examples, the plurality of virtual ratingscorresponding to the plurality of virtual skills, the plurality ofvirtual ratings including a virtual steering rating of a virtualsteering skill, a virtual braking rating of a virtual braking skill, avirtual speeding rating of a virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtualfocus rating of a virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, the virtual occurrence generating module isconfigured to generate the one or more virtual occurrences based furtherin part upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, the character profile updating module is configuredto update a vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with thevirtual character, the vehicle condition indicative of a degree ofdamage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or more virtualoccurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, the presenting module is configured to present theupdated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to the user.

In some embodiments, the character training module is configured toupdate, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, aplurality of fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtualskills. In some examples, the character training module is furtherconfigured to increase one or more virtual ratings of the plurality ofvirtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality offill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.

According to various embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readablemedium with instructions stored thereon, that upon execution by aprocessor, causes the processor to perform: receiving telematics dataassociated with one or more real trips during which a user operated areal vehicle; determining, based at least in part upon the telematicsdata, a plurality of skill points associated with a plurality of realskills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips;receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtual character, thevirtual character having a character profile and a plurality of virtualratings associated with a plurality of virtual skills; training thevirtual character by at least updating, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; generating,based at least in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; determining,based at least in part upon the plurality of virtual ratings, one ormore outcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences;determining, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points,a first quantity of a first game resource at least for purchasingoutcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items being exclusivelypurchasable using the first game resource; updating the characterprofile by granting the first quantity of the first game resource to thevirtual character; upon receiving the user's selection to use a firstoutcome-modifying item: updating the one or more outcomes according to apredetermined adjustment; and determining, based at least in part uponthe updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of a second gameresource at least for purchasing character cosmetic upgrades, unlockingin-game items, and/or unlocking regions of a virtual map; and updatingthe character profile by granting the second quantity of the second gameresource to the virtual character; and presenting the updated characterprofile to the user. In some examples, the non-transitorycomputer-readable medium, upon execution by a processor associated withsystem 100 of FIG. 1, system 300 of FIG. 3, device 5000 of FIG. 5,and/or system 7000 of FIG. 6, causes the corresponding system to performmethod 200 of FIG. 2, and/or method 400 of FIG. 4.

Examples of Some Embodiments of the Present Disclosure

According to various embodiments, a computer-implemented method fortraining a virtual character of a telematics-based game includes:receiving telematics data associated with one or more real trips duringwhich a user operated a real vehicle; determining, based at least inpart upon the telematics data, a plurality of skill points associatedwith a plurality of real skills exhibited by the user during the one ormore real trips; receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtualcharacter, the virtual character having a character profile and aplurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; training the virtual character by at least updating, based atleast in part upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality ofvirtual ratings; generating, based at least in part upon the characterprofile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; determining, based at least in part upon the updatedplurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with theone or more virtual occurrences; updating the character profile by atleast applying the one or more virtual occurrences based on theassociated one or more outcomes to the virtual character; and presentingthe updated character profile to the user.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes one or more virtual obstacles to be encountered bythe virtual character.

In some embodiments, each outcome of the one or more outcomes correspondto a likelihood of success of the virtual character overcoming the oneor more virtual obstacles in each virtual occurrence of the one or morevirtual occurrences.

In some embodiments, the plurality of real skills includes a realsteering skill, a real braking skill, a real speeding skill, and/or areal focus skill. In some examples, the plurality of virtual skillsincludes a virtual steering skill, a virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding skill, and/or a virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes a steering difficulty corresponding to one or morevirtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty corresponding to one ormore virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty corresponding toone or more virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficultycorresponding to one or more virtual focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining the one or more outcomes includesdetermining the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, generating the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes generating the one or more virtual occurrences based further inpart upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, updating the character profile includes updating avehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with the virtualcharacter. In some examples, the vehicle condition is indicative of adegree of damage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or morevirtual occurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, presenting the updated character profile includespresenting the updated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to theuser.

In some embodiments, training the virtual character includes: updating,based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, a pluralityof fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtual skills; andincreasing one or more virtual ratings of the plurality of virtualratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality of fill-levelsexceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.

In various embodiments, a system for training a virtual character of atelematics-based game includes: a data receiving module configured toreceive telematics data associated with one or more real trips duringwhich a user operated a real vehicle; a skill point determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the telematicsdata, a plurality of skill points associated with a plurality of realskills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips; a userinput module configured to receive, from the user, a selection of avirtual character, the virtual character having a character profile anda plurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; a character training module configured to train the virtualcharacter by at least updating, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; a virtualoccurrence generating module configured to generate, based at least inpart upon the character profile, one or more virtual occurrences to beencountered by the virtual character; an outcome determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the updatedplurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with theone or more virtual occurrences; a character profile updating moduleconfigured to update the character profile by at least applying the oneor more virtual occurrences based on the associated one or more outcomesto the virtual character; and a presenting module configured to presentthe updated character profile to the user.

In some embodiments, the outcome determining module is configured todetermine the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon: aplurality of occurrence difficulties including a steering difficultyassociated with one or more virtual steering obstacles, a brakingdifficulty associated with one or more virtual braking obstacles, aspeeding difficulty associated with one or more virtual speedingobstacles, and/or a focus difficulty associated with one or more virtualfocus obstacles; and the plurality of virtual ratings corresponding tothe plurality of virtual skills, the plurality of virtual ratingsincluding a virtual steering rating of a virtual steering skill, avirtual braking rating of a virtual braking skill, a virtual speedingrating of a virtual speeding skill, and/o a virtual focus rating of avirtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, the virtual occurrence generating module isconfigured to generate the one or more virtual occurrences based furtherin part upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, the character profile updating module is configuredto update a vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with thevirtual character, the vehicle condition indicative of a degree ofdamage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or more virtualoccurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, the presenting module is configured to present theupdated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to the user.

In some embodiments, the character training module is configured to:update, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, aplurality of fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtualskills; and increase one or more virtual ratings of the plurality ofvirtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality offill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.

In various embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium withinstructions stored thereon, that upon execution by a processor, causesthe processor to perform: receiving telematics data associated with oneor more real trips during which a user operated a real vehicle;determining, based at least in part upon the telematics data, aplurality of skill points associated with a plurality of real skillsexhibited by the user during the one or more real trips; receiving, fromthe user, a selection of a virtual character, the virtual characterhaving a character profile and a plurality of virtual ratings associatedwith a plurality of virtual skills; training the virtual character by atleast updating, based at least in part upon the plurality of skillpoints, the plurality of virtual ratings; generating, based at least inpart upon the character profile, one or more virtual occurrences to beencountered by the virtual character; determining, based at least inpart upon the updated plurality of virtual ratings, one or more outcomesassociated with the one or more virtual occurrences; updating thecharacter profile by at least applying the one or more virtualoccurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes to the virtualcharacter; and presenting the updated character profile to the user.

According to various embodiments, a computer-implemented method fortraining a virtual character of a telematics-based game includes:receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtual character, thevirtual character having a character profile and a plurality of virtualratings associated with a plurality of virtual skills; generating, basedat least in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences; determining, based at least in part upon the plurality ofvirtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; initiating a virtual trip, the virtual tripincluding the one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; receiving, in real-time or near real-time with a realtrip, telematics data associated with the real trip, the real trip beingin process and traveled by a real vehicle operated by the user;determining, based at least in part upon the telematics data, one ormore real obstacles encountered by the user during the real trip;determining, based at least in part upon the telematics data, one ormore performances indicative of how proficient the user operated thereal vehicle upon encountering the one or more real obstacles;determining, based at least in part upon the one or more performances,one or more skill points associated with a plurality of real skills;training the virtual character by at least updating, based at least inpart upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality of virtualratings; updating, based at least in part upon the updated plurality ofvirtual ratings, the one or more outcomes; and upon completion of thereal trip: updating the character profile based at least in part uponthe one or more virtual occurrences and the associated updated one ormore outcomes; and presenting the updated character profile to the user.

In some embodiments, determining one or more real obstacles includes:determining one or more real steering obstacles; determining one or morereal braking obstacles; determining one or more real speeding obstacles;and/or determining one or more real focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining one or more performances includes:determining one or more steering performances indicative of howproficient the user was at steering the real vehicle upon encounteringthe one or more real steering obstacles; determining one or more brakingperformances indicative of how proficient the user was at deceleratingthe real vehicle upon encountering the one or more braking steeringobstacles; determining one or more speeding performances indicative ofhow proficient the user was at accelerating the real vehicle uponencountering the one or more braking steering obstacles; and/ordetermining one or more focus performances indicative of how proficientthe user was at staying in focus on operating the real vehicle uponencountering the one or more braking steering obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining one or more skill points includes:determining one or more steering skill points based at least in partupon the one or more steering performances; determining one or morebraking skill points based at least in part upon the one or more brakingperformances; determining one or more speeding skill points based atleast in part upon the one or more speeding performances; and/ordetermining one or more focus skill points based at least in part uponthe one or more focus performances.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes one or more virtual obstacles to be encountered bythe virtual character during the virtual trip.

In some embodiments, each outcome of the one or more outcomes correspondto a likelihood of success of the virtual character overcoming the oneor more virtual obstacles in each virtual occurrence of the one or morevirtual occurrences.

In some embodiments, the plurality of real skills includes a realsteering skill, a real braking skill, a real speeding skill, and/or areal focus skill; and the plurality of virtual skills includes a virtualsteering skill, a virtual braking skill, a virtual speeding skill,and/or a virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes a steering difficulty corresponding to one or morevirtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty corresponding to one ormore virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty corresponding toone or more virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficultycorresponding to one or more virtual focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining the one or more outcomes includesdetermining the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, generating the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes generating the one or more virtual occurrences based further inpart upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, updating the character profile includes updating avehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with the virtualcharacter, the vehicle condition being indicative of a degree of damagesustained by the virtual vehicle during the one or more virtualoccurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, presenting the updated character profile includespresenting the updated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to theuser.

In some embodiments, training the virtual character includes: updating,based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, a pluralityof fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtual skills; andincreasing one or more virtual ratings of the plurality of virtualratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality of fill-levelsexceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.

According to various embodiments, a system for training a virtualcharacter of a telematics-based game, the system comprising: a userinput module configured to receive, from the user, a selection of avirtual character, the virtual character having a character profile anda plurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; a virtual occurrence generating module configured to generate,based at least in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences; an outcome determining module configured to determine,based at least in part upon the plurality of virtual ratings, one ormore outcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences; avirtual trip initiating module configured to initiate a virtual trip,the virtual trip including the one or more virtual occurrences to beencountered by the virtual character; a data receiving module configuredto receive, in real-time or near real-time with a real trip, telematicsdata associated with the real trip, the real trip being in process andtraveled by a real vehicle operated by the user; a real obstacledetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe telematics data, one or more real obstacles encountered by the userduring the real trip; a performance determining module configured todetermine, based at least in part upon the telematics data, one or moreperformances indicative of how proficient the user operated the realvehicle upon encountering the one or more real obstacles; a skill pointdetermining module configured to determine, based at least in part uponthe one or more performances, one or more skill points associated with aplurality of real skills; a character training module configured totrain the virtual character by at least updating, based at least in partupon the plurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; anoutcome updating module configured to update, based at least in partupon the updated plurality of virtual ratings, the one or more outcomes;a character profile updating module configured to, upon completion ofthe real trip, update the character profile based at least in part uponthe one or more virtual occurrences and the associated updated one ormore outcomes; and a presenting module configured to present the updatedcharacter profile to the user.

In some embodiments, the real obstacle determining module is configuredto: determine one or more real steering obstacles; determine one or morereal braking obstacles; determine one or more real speeding obstacles;and/or determine one or more real focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, the performance determining module is configuredto: determine one or more steering performances indicative of howproficient the user was at steering the real vehicle upon encounteringthe one or more real steering obstacles; determine one or more brakingperformances indicative of how proficient the user was at deceleratingthe real vehicle upon encountering the one or more braking steeringobstacles; determine one or more speeding performances indicative of howproficient the user was at accelerating the real vehicle uponencountering the one or more braking steering obstacles; and/ordetermine one or more focus performances indicative of how proficientthe user was at staying in focus on operating the real vehicle uponencountering the one or more braking steering obstacles.

In some embodiments, the skill point determining module is configuredto: determine one or more steering skill points based at least in partupon the one or more steering performances; determine one or morebraking skill points based at least in part upon the one or more brakingperformances; determine one or more speeding skill points based at leastin part upon the one or more speeding performances; and/or determine oneor more focus skill points based at least in part upon the one or morefocus performances.

In some embodiments, the outcome determining module is configured todetermine the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, the virtual occurrence generating module isconfigured to generate the one or more virtual occurrences based furtherin part upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, the character profile updating module is configuredto update a vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle associated with thevirtual character. In some examples, the vehicle condition is indicativeof a degree of damage sustained by the virtual vehicle during the one ormore virtual occurrences based on the associated one or more outcomes.

In some embodiments, the presenting module is configured to present theupdated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to the user.

In some embodiments, the character training module is configured to:update, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, aplurality of fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtualskills; and increase one or more virtual ratings of the plurality ofvirtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality offill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.

According to various embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readablemedium with instructions stored thereon, that upon execution by aprocessor, causes the processor to perform: receiving, from the user, aselection of a virtual character, the virtual character having acharacter profile and a plurality of virtual ratings associated with aplurality of virtual skills; generating, based at least in part upon thecharacter profile, one or more virtual occurrences; determining, basedat least in part upon the plurality of virtual ratings, one or moreoutcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences; initiatinga virtual trip, the virtual trip including the one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; receiving, inreal-time or near real-time with a real trip, telematics data associatedwith the real trip, the real trip being in process and traveled by areal vehicle operated by the user; determining, based at least in partupon the telematics data, one or more real obstacles encountered by theuser during the real trip;

determining, based at least in part upon the telematics data, one ormore performances indicative of how proficient the user operated thereal vehicle upon encountering the one or more real obstacles;determining, based at least in part upon the one or more performances,one or more skill points associated with a plurality of real skills;training the virtual character by at least updating, based at least inpart upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality of virtualratings; updating, based at least in part upon the updated plurality ofvirtual ratings, the one or more outcomes; and upon completion of thereal trip: updating the character profile to reflect the one or morevirtual occurrences and the associated updated one or more outcomes; andpresenting the updated character profile to the user.

According to various embodiments, a computer-implemented method forupdating a character profile of a virtual character of atelematics-based game, the method comprising: generating, based at leastin part upon a character profile of a virtual character, one or morevirtual occurrences to be encountered by the virtual character;determining, based at least in part upon a plurality of virtual ratingsof the virtual character, one or more outcomes associated with the oneor more virtual occurrences; generating a virtual trip including the oneor more virtual occurrences with the associated one or more outcomes;determining, based at least in part upon the one or more outcomes, atrip success prediction of the virtual character completing the virtualtrip; determining, based at least in part upon the one or more outcomes,a predicted change in vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle, thepredicted change in vehicle condition being indicative of a degree ofdamage to be sustained by the virtual vehicle during the virtual trip;presenting the trip success prediction, the predicted change in vehiclecondition, a first user-selectable command, and a second user-selectablecommand to the user; upon receiving the user's selection of the firstuser-selectable command, updating the character profile by at leastinitiating the virtual trip with the virtual character; upon receivingthe user's selection of the second user-selectable command: updating theone or more outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; andupdating the character profile by at least initiating the virtual tripwith the virtual character based on the updated one or more outcomes;and presenting the updated character profile to the user.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes one or more virtual obstacles to be encountered bythe virtual character.

In some embodiments, each outcome of the one or more outcomes correspondto a likelihood of success of the virtual character overcoming the oneor more virtual obstacles in each virtual occurrence of the one or morevirtual occurrences.

In some embodiments, the virtual character has a plurality of virtualskills including a virtual steering skill, a virtual braking skill, avirtual speeding skill, and a virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, each virtual occurrence of the one or more virtualoccurrences includes a steering difficulty corresponding to one or morevirtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty corresponding to one ormore virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficulty corresponding toone or more virtual speeding obstacles, and/or a focus difficultycorresponding to one or more virtual focus obstacles.

In some embodiments, determining the one or more outcomes includesdetermining the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, generating the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes generating the one or more virtual occurrences based further inpart upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, updating the character profile includes updating avehicle condition of the virtual vehicle based on the predicted changein vehicle condition.

In some embodiments, presenting the updated character profile includespresenting the updated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle.

According to various embodiments, a system for updating a characterprofile of a virtual character of a telematics-based game, the systemcomprising: a virtual occurrence generating module configured togenerate, based at least in part upon a character profile of a virtualcharacter, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; an outcome determining module configured todetermine, based at least in part upon a plurality of virtual ratings ofthe virtual character, one or more outcomes associated with the one ormore virtual occurrences; a virtual trip generating module configured togenerate a virtual trip including the one or more virtual occurrenceswith the associated one or more outcomes; a trip success predictionmodule configured to determine, based at least in part upon the one ormore outcomes, a trip success prediction of the virtual charactercompleting the virtual trip; a vehicle condition module configured todetermine, based at least in part upon the one or more outcomes, apredicted change in vehicle condition, the predicted change in vehiclecondition being indicative of a degree of damage to be sustained by thevirtual vehicle during the virtual trip; a presenting module configuredto present the trip success prediction, the predicted change in vehiclecondition, a first user-selectable command, and a second user-selectablecommand to the user; and a character profile updating module configuredto update, upon receiving the user's selection of the firstuser-selectable command, the character profile by at least initiatingthe virtual trip with the virtual character; wherein the outcomedetermining module is further configured to update, upon receiving theuser's selection of the second user-selectable command, the one or moreoutcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; wherein the characterprofile updating module is further configured to update, upon receivingthe updated one or more outcomes, the character profile by at leastinitiating the virtual trip with the virtual character based on theupdated one or more outcomes; and wherein the presenting module isfurther configured to present the updated character profile to the user.

In some embodiments, the outcome determining module is configured todetermine the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon thesteering difficulty, the braking difficulty, the speeding difficulty,the focus difficulty, a virtual steering rating of the virtual steeringskill, a virtual braking rating of the virtual braking skill, a virtualspeeding rating of the virtual speeding skill, and/or a virtual focusrating of the virtual focus skill.

In some embodiments, the virtual occurrence generating module isconfigured to generate the one or more virtual occurrences based furtherin part upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.

In some embodiments, the character profile updating module is configuredto update a vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle based on thepredicted change in vehicle condition.

In some embodiments, the presenting module is further configured topresent the updated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle.

In various embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium withinstructions stored thereon, that upon execution by a processor, causesthe processor to perform: generating, based at least in part upon acharacter profile of a virtual character, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; determining,based at least in part upon a plurality of virtual ratings of thevirtual character, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; generating a virtual trip including the one or morevirtual occurrences with the associated one or more outcomes;determining, based at least in part upon the one or more outcomes, atrip success prediction of the virtual character completing the virtualtrip; determining, based at least in part upon the one or more outcomes,a predicted change in vehicle condition of a virtual vehicle, thepredicted change in vehicle condition being indicative of a degree ofdamage to be sustained by the virtual vehicle during the virtual trip;presenting the trip success prediction, the predicted change in vehiclecondition, a first user-selectable command, and a second user-selectablecommand to the user; upon receiving the user's selection of the firstuser-selectable command, updating the character profile by at leastinitiating the virtual trip with the virtual character; upon receivingthe user's selection of the second user-selectable command: updating theone or more outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; andupdating the character profile by at least initiating the virtual tripwith the virtual character based on the updated one or more outcomes;and presenting the updated character profile to the user.

One or More Examples of Machine Learning According to VariousEmbodiments

According to some embodiments, a processor or a processing element maybe trained using supervised machine learning and/or unsupervised machinelearning, and the machine learning may employ an artificial neuralnetwork, which, for example, may be a convolutional neural network, arecurrent neural network, a deep learning neural network, areinforcement learning module or program, or a combined learning moduleor program that learns in two or more fields or areas of interest.Machine learning may involve identifying and recognizing patterns inexisting data in order to facilitate making predictions for subsequentdata. Models may be created based upon example inputs in order to makevalid and reliable predictions for novel inputs.

According to certain embodiments, machine learning programs may betrained by inputting sample data sets or certain data into the programs,such as images, object statistics and information, historical estimates,and/or actual repair costs. The machine learning programs may utilizedeep learning algorithms that may be primarily focused on patternrecognition and may be trained after processing multiple examples. Themachine learning programs may include Bayesian Program Learning (BPL),voice recognition and synthesis, image or object recognition, opticalcharacter recognition, and/or natural language processing. The machinelearning programs may also include natural language processing, semanticanalysis, automatic reasoning, and/or other types of machine learning.

According to some embodiments, supervised machine learning techniquesand/or unsupervised machine learning techniques may be used. Insupervised machine learning, a processing element may be provided withexample inputs and their associated outputs and may seek to discover ageneral rule that maps inputs to outputs, so that when subsequent novelinputs are provided the processing element may, based upon thediscovered rule, accurately predict the correct output. In unsupervisedmachine learning, the processing element may need to find its ownstructure in unlabeled example inputs.

One or More Examples of Modules According to Various Embodiments

Additionally, certain embodiments are described herein as includinglogic or a number of routines, subroutines, applications, orinstructions. These may constitute either software (e.g., code embodiedon a non-transitory, machine-readable medium) or hardware. In hardware,the routines, etc., are tangible units capable of performing certainoperations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. Inexample embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone,client or server computer system) or one or more hardware modules of acomputer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) may beconfigured by software (e.g., an application or application portion) asa hardware module that operates to perform certain operations asdescribed herein.

In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implementedmechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module maycomprise dedicated circuitry or logic that may be permanently configured(e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gatearray (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) toperform certain operations. A hardware module may also compriseprogrammable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within ageneral-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that may betemporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. Itwill be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware modulemechanically, in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or intemporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may bedriven by cost and time considerations.

Accordingly, the term “hardware module” should be understood toencompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physicallyconstructed, permanently configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarilyconfigured (e.g., programmed) to operate in a certain manner or toperform certain operations described herein. Considering embodiments inwhich hardware modules are temporarily configured (e.g., programmed),each of the hardware modules need not be configured or instantiated atany one instance in time. For example, where the hardware modulescomprise a general-purpose processor configured using software, thegeneral-purpose processor may be configured as respective differenthardware modules at different times. Software may accordingly configurea processor, for example, to constitute a particular hardware module atone instance of time and to constitute a different hardware module at adifferent instance of time.

Hardware modules may provide information to, and receive informationfrom, other hardware modules. Accordingly, the described hardwaremodules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Where multipleof such hardware modules exist contemporaneously, communications may beachieved through signal transmission (e.g., over appropriate circuitsand buses) that connect the hardware modules. In embodiments in whichmultiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at differenttimes, communications between such hardware modules may be achieved, forexample, through the storage and retrieval of information in memorystructures to which the multiple hardware modules have access. Forexample, one hardware module may perform an operation and store theoutput of that operation in a memory device to which it may becommunicatively coupled. A further hardware module may then, at a latertime, access the memory device to retrieve and process the storedoutput. Hardware modules may also initiate communications with input oroutput devices, and may operate on a resource (e.g., a collection ofinformation).

The various operations of example methods described herein may beperformed, at least partially, by one or more processors that aretemporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured toperform the relevant operations. Whether temporarily or permanentlyconfigured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modulesthat operate to perform one or more operations or functions. The modulesreferred to herein may, in some example embodiments, compriseprocessor-implemented modules.

Similarly, the methods or routines described herein may be at leastpartially processor-implemented. For example, at least some of theoperations of a method may be performed by one or more processors orprocessor-implemented hardware modules. The performance of certain ofthe operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, notonly residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number ofmachines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors maybe located in a single location (e.g., within a home environment, anoffice environment, or as a server farm), while in other embodiments theprocessors may be distributed across a number of locations.

The performance of certain of the operations may be distributed amongthe one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine,but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments,the one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may belocated in a single geographic location (e.g., within a homeenvironment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other exampleembodiments, the one or more processors or processor-implemented modulesmay be distributed across a number of geographic locations.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, discussions herein using wordssuch as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,”“presenting,” “displaying,” or the like may refer to actions orprocesses of a machine (e.g., a computer) that manipulates or transformsdata represented as physical (e.g., electronic, magnetic, or optical)quantities within one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory,non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof), registers, or othermachine components that receive, store, transmit, or displayinformation.

Additional Considerations According to Various Embodiments

For example, some or all components of various embodiments of thepresent disclosure each are, individually and/or in combination with atleast another component, implemented using one or more softwarecomponents, one or more hardware components, and/or one or morecombinations of software and hardware components. As an example, some orall components of various embodiments of the present disclosure eachare, individually and/or in combination with at least another component,implemented in one or more circuits, such as one or more analog circuitsand/or one or more digital circuits. For example, while the embodimentsdescribed above refer to particular features, the scope of the presentdisclosure also includes embodiments having different combinations offeatures and embodiments that do not include all of the describedfeatures. As an example, various embodiments and/or examples of thepresent disclosure can be combined.

Additionally, the methods and systems described herein may beimplemented on many different types of processing devices by programcode comprising program instructions that are executable by the deviceprocessing subsystem. The software program instructions may includesource code, object code, machine code, or any other stored data that isoperable to cause a processing system to perform the methods andoperations described herein. Certain implementations may also be used,however, such as firmware or even appropriately designed hardwareconfigured to perform the methods and systems described herein.

The systems' and methods' data (e.g., associations, mappings, datainput, data output, intermediate data results, final data results) maybe stored and implemented in one or more different types ofcomputer-implemented data stores, such as different types of storagedevices and programming constructs (e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, Flashmemory, flat files, databases, programming data structures, programmingvariables, IF-THEN (or similar type) statement constructs, applicationprogramming interface). It is noted that data structures describeformats for use in organizing and storing data in databases, programs,memory, or other computer-readable media for use by a computer program.

The systems and methods may be provided on many different types ofcomputer-readable media including computer storage mechanisms (e.g.,CD-ROM, diskette, RAM, flash memory, computer's hard drive, DVD) thatcontain instructions (e.g., software) for use in execution by aprocessor to perform the methods' operations and implement the systemsdescribed herein. The computer components, software modules, functions,data stores and data structures described herein may be connecteddirectly or indirectly to each other in order to allow the flow of dataneeded for their operations. It is also noted that a module or processorincludes a unit of code that performs a software operation, and can beimplemented for example as a subroutine unit of code, or as a softwarefunction unit of code, or as an object (as in an object-orientedparadigm), or as an applet, or in a computer script language, or asanother type of computer code. The software components and/orfunctionality may be located on a single computer or distributed acrossmultiple computers depending upon the situation at hand.

The computing system can include client devices and servers. A clientdevice and server are generally remote from each other and typicallyinteract through a communication network. The relationship of clientdevice and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on therespective computers and having a client device-server relationship toeach other.

This specification contains many specifics for particular embodiments.Certain features that are described in this specification in the contextof separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in asingle embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described inthe context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multipleembodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover,although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations, one or more features from a combination can in some casesbe removed from the combination, and a combination may, for example, bedirected to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Similarly, while operations are depicted in a particular order, thisshould not be understood as requiring that such operations be performedin the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that allillustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Incertain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may beadvantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components inthe embodiments described above should not be understood as requiringsuch separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that thedescribed program components and systems can generally be integratedtogether in a single software product or packaged into multiple softwareproducts.

Additionally, certain embodiments are described herein as includinglogic or a number of routines, subroutines, applications, orinstructions. These may constitute either software (e.g., code embodiedon a non-transitory, machine-readable medium) or hardware. In hardware,the routines, etc., are tangible units capable of performing certainoperations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. Inexample embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone,client or server computer system) or one or more hardware modules of acomputer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) may beconfigured by software (e.g., an application or application portion) asa hardware module that operates to perform certain operations asdescribed herein.

In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implementedmechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module maycomprise dedicated circuitry or logic that may be permanently configured(e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gatearray (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) toperform certain operations. A hardware module may also compriseprogrammable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within ageneral-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that may betemporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. Itwill be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware modulemechanically, in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or intemporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may bedriven by cost and time considerations.

Accordingly, the term “hardware module” should be understood toencompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physicallyconstructed, permanently configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarilyconfigured (e.g., programmed) to operate in a certain manner or toperform certain operations described herein. Considering embodiments inwhich hardware modules are temporarily configured (e.g., programmed),each of the hardware modules need not be configured or instantiated atany one instance in time. For example, where the hardware modulescomprise a general-purpose processor configured using software, thegeneral-purpose processor may be configured as respective differenthardware modules at different times. Software may accordingly configurea processor, for example, to constitute a particular hardware module atone instance of time and to constitute a different hardware module at adifferent instance of time.

Hardware modules may provide information to, and receive informationfrom, other hardware modules. Accordingly, the described hardwaremodules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Where multipleof such hardware modules exist contemporaneously, communications may beachieved through signal transmission (e.g., over appropriate circuitsand buses) that connect the hardware modules. In embodiments in whichmultiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at differenttimes, communications between such hardware modules may be achieved, forexample, through the storage and retrieval of information in memorystructures to which the multiple hardware modules have access. Forexample, one hardware module may perform an operation and store theoutput of that operation in a memory device to which it may becommunicatively coupled. A further hardware module may then, at a latertime, access the memory device to retrieve and process the storedoutput. Hardware modules may also initiate communications with input oroutput devices, and may operate on a resource (e.g., a collection ofinformation).

The various operations of example methods described herein may beperformed, at least partially, by one or more processors that aretemporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured toperform the relevant operations. Whether temporarily or permanentlyconfigured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modulesthat operate to perform one or more operations or functions. The modulesreferred to herein may, in some example embodiments, compriseprocessor-implemented modules.

Similarly, the methods or routines described herein may be at leastpartially processor-implemented. For example, at least some of theoperations of a method may be performed by one or more processors orprocessor-implemented hardware modules. The performance of certain ofthe operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, notonly residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number ofmachines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors maybe located in a single location (e.g., within a home environment, anoffice environment, or as a server farm), while in other embodiments theprocessors may be distributed across a number of locations.

The performance of certain of the operations may be distributed amongthe one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine,but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments,the one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may belocated in a single geographic location (e.g., within a homeenvironment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other exampleembodiments, the one or more processors or processor-implemented modulesmay be distributed across a number of geographic locations.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, discussions herein using wordssuch as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,”“presenting,” “displaying,” or the like may refer to actions orprocesses of a machine (e.g., a computer) that manipulates or transformsdata represented as physical (e.g., electronic, magnetic, or optical)quantities within one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory,non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof), registers, or othermachine components that receive, store, transmit, or displayinformation.

Although specific embodiments of the present disclosure have beendescribed, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that thereare other embodiments that are equivalent to the described embodiments.Accordingly, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is notto be limited by the specific illustrated embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method for granting gameresources of a telematics-based game, the method comprising: receivingtelematics data associated with one or more real trips during which auser operated a real vehicle; determining, based at least in part uponthe telematics data, a plurality of skill points associated with aplurality of real skills exhibited by the user during the one or morereal trips; receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtualcharacter, the virtual character having a character profile and aplurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; training the virtual character by at least updating, based atleast in part upon the plurality of skill points, the plurality ofvirtual ratings; generating, based at least in part upon the characterprofile, one or more virtual occurrences to be encountered by thevirtual character; determining, based at least in part upon a pluralityof virtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; determining, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, a first quantity of a first game resource atleast for purchasing outcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifyingitems being exclusively purchasable using the first game resource;updating the character profile by granting the first quantity of thefirst game resource to the virtual character; upon receiving the user'sselection to use a first outcome-modifying item: updating the one ormore outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; and determining,based at least in part upon the updated one or more outcomes, a secondquantity of a second game resource at least for purchasing charactercosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, and unlocking regions of avirtual map; and updating the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character; andpresenting the updated character profile to the user.
 2. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein each virtual occurrenceof the one or more virtual occurrences includes one or more virtualobstacles to be encountered by the virtual character.
 3. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein each outcome of the oneor more outcomes correspond to a likelihood of success of the virtualcharacter overcoming the one or more virtual obstacles in each virtualoccurrence of the one or more virtual occurrences.
 4. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 3, wherein: the plurality of realskills includes a real steering skill, a real braking skill, a realspeeding skill, and a real focus skill; and the plurality of virtualskills includes a virtual steering skill, a virtual braking skill, avirtual speeding skill, and a virtual focus skill.
 5. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 4, wherein each virtual occurrenceof the one or more virtual occurrences includes a steering difficultycorresponding to one or more virtual steering obstacles, a brakingdifficulty corresponding to one or more virtual braking obstacles, aspeeding difficulty corresponding to one or more virtual speedingobstacles, and a focus difficulty corresponding to one or more virtualfocus obstacles.
 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, whereinthe determining the one or more outcomes includes determining the one ormore outcomes based at least in part upon the steering difficulty, thebraking difficulty, the speeding difficulty, the focus difficulty, avirtual steering rating of the virtual steering skill, a virtual brakingrating of the virtual braking skill, a virtual speeding rating of thevirtual speeding skill, and a virtual focus rating of the virtual focusskill.
 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein thegenerating the one or more virtual occurrences includes generating theone or more virtual occurrences based further in part upon one or moreunlocked regions of a virtual map of the telematics-based game.
 8. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the updating thecharacter profile includes updating a vehicle condition of a virtualvehicle associated with the virtual character, the vehicle conditionbeing indicative of a degree of damage sustained by the virtual vehicleduring the one or more virtual occurrences based on the associated oneor more outcomes.
 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, whereinthe presenting the updated character profile includes presenting theupdated vehicle condition of the virtual vehicle to the user.
 10. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the training the virtualcharacter includes: updating, based at least in part upon the pluralityof skill points, a plurality of fill-levels corresponding to theplurality of virtual skills; and increasing one or more virtual ratingsof the plurality of virtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of theplurality of fill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined filltargets.
 11. A system for granting game resources of a telematics-basedgame, the system comprising: a data receiving module configured toreceive telematics data associated with one or more real trips duringwhich a user operated a real vehicle; a skill point determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the telematicsdata, a plurality of skill points associated with a plurality of realskills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips; a userinput module configured to receive, from the user, a selection of avirtual character, the virtual character having a character profile anda plurality of virtual ratings associated with a plurality of virtualskills; a character training module configured to train the virtualcharacter by at least updating, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; a virtualoccurrence generating module configured to generate, based at least inpart upon the character profile, one or more virtual occurrences to beencountered by the virtual character; an outcome determining moduleconfigured to determine, based at least in part upon the plurality ofvirtual ratings, one or more outcomes associated with the one or morevirtual occurrences; a game resource determining module configured todetermine, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, afirst quantity of a first game resource at least for purchasingoutcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items being exclusivelypurchasable using the first game resource; a character profile updatingmodule configured to update the character profile by granting the firstquantity of the first game resource to the virtual character; whereinthe outcome determining module is further configured to update the oneor more outcomes according to a predetermined adjustment; wherein thegame resource determining module is further configured to determine,based at least in part upon the updated one or more outcomes, a secondquantity of a second game resource at least for purchasing charactercosmetic upgrades, unlocking in-game items, and unlocking regions of avirtual map; wherein the character profile updating module is furtherconfigured to update the character profile by granting the secondquantity of the second game resource to the virtual character; whereinthe system further includes a presenting module configured to presentthe updated character profile to the user.
 12. The system of claim 11,wherein the outcome determining module is configured to determine theone or more outcomes based at least in part upon: a plurality ofoccurrence difficulties including a steering difficulty associated withone or more virtual steering obstacles, a braking difficulty associatedwith one or more virtual braking obstacles, a speeding difficultyassociated with one or more virtual speeding obstacles, and a focusdifficulty associated with one or more virtual focus obstacles; and theplurality of virtual ratings corresponding to the plurality of virtualskills, the plurality of virtual ratings including a virtual steeringrating of a virtual steering skill, a virtual braking rating of avirtual braking skill, a virtual speeding rating of a virtual speedingskill, and a virtual focus rating of a virtual focus skill.
 13. Thesystem of claim 11, wherein the virtual occurrence generating module isconfigured to generate the one or more virtual occurrences based furtherin part upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.
 14. The system of claim 11, wherein the characterprofile updating module is configured to update a vehicle condition of avirtual vehicle associated with the virtual character, the vehiclecondition indicative of a degree of damage sustained by the virtualvehicle during the one or more virtual occurrences based on theassociated one or more outcomes.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein thepresenting module is configured to present the updated vehicle conditionof the virtual vehicle to the user.
 16. The system of claim 11, whereinthe character training module is configured to: update, based at leastin part upon the plurality of skill points, a plurality of fill-levelscorresponding to the plurality of virtual skills; and increase one ormore virtual ratings of the plurality of virtual ratings upon any of thefill-levels of the plurality of fill-levels exceeding one or morepredetermined fill targets.
 17. A non-transitory computer-readablemedium with instructions stored thereon, that upon execution by aprocessor, causes the processor to perform: receiving telematics dataassociated with one or more real trips during which a user operated areal vehicle; determining, based at least in part upon the telematicsdata, a plurality of skill points associated with a plurality of realskills exhibited by the user during the one or more real trips;receiving, from the user, a selection of a virtual character, thevirtual character having a character profile and a plurality of virtualratings associated with a plurality of virtual skills; training thevirtual character by at least updating, based at least in part upon theplurality of skill points, the plurality of virtual ratings; generating,based at least in part upon the character profile, one or more virtualoccurrences to be encountered by the virtual character; determining,based at least in part upon the plurality of virtual ratings, one ormore outcomes associated with the one or more virtual occurrences;determining, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points,a first quantity of a first game resource at least for purchasingoutcome-modifying items, the outcome-modifying items being exclusivelypurchasable using the first game resource; updating the characterprofile by granting the first quantity of the first game resource to thevirtual character; upon receiving the user's selection to use a firstoutcome-modifying item: updating the one or more outcomes according to apredetermined adjustment; and determining, based at least in part uponthe updated one or more outcomes, a second quantity of a second gameresource at least for purchasing character cosmetic upgrades, unlockingin-game items, and unlocking regions of a virtual map; and updating thecharacter profile by granting the second quantity of the second gameresource to the virtual character; and presenting the updated characterprofile to the user.
 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 17, wherein the determining the one or more outcomes includesdetermining the one or more outcomes based at least in part upon: aplurality of occurrence difficulties including a steering difficultyassociated with one or more virtual steering obstacles, a brakingdifficulty associated with one or more virtual braking obstacles, aspeeding difficulty associated with one or more virtual speedingobstacles, and a focus difficulty associated with one or more virtualfocus obstacles; and the plurality of virtual ratings corresponding tothe plurality of virtual skills, the plurality of virtual ratingsincluding a virtual steering rating of a virtual steering skill, avirtual braking rating of a virtual braking skill, a virtual speedingrating of a virtual speeding skill, and a virtual focus rating of avirtual focus skill.
 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 17, wherein the generating the one or more virtual occurrencesincludes generating the one or more virtual occurrences based further inpart upon one or more unlocked regions of a virtual map of thetelematics-based game.
 20. The non-transitory computer-readable mediumof claim 17, wherein the training the virtual character includes:updating, based at least in part upon the plurality of skill points, aplurality of fill-levels corresponding to the plurality of virtualskills; and increasing one or more virtual ratings of the plurality ofvirtual ratings upon any of the fill-levels of the plurality offill-levels exceeding one or more predetermined fill targets.